At the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine, Ohio State linebackers Arvell Reese and Sonny Styles, along with defensive tackle Kayden McDonald, provided revealing insights into their skills, backgrounds, and aspirations as they prepare for the professional ranks. These athletes discussed their readiness to transition to the NFL level, the mentors who shaped their journey, and the impact they hope to make while embracing the pressure of the impending draft.
Arvell Reese Discusses His Versatility and Pass-Rushing Skills
Reese expressed strong confidence in his ability to both drop back as a linebacker and engage in pass rushing. He highlighted that approximately 60% of his snaps last season involved edge duties, including dropping into coverage and defending the run by setting a solid edge and managing counters and pullers effectively. Although he’s been primarily an inside linebacker recently, Reese believes he has much room to improve his pass-rushing abilities moving forward.
The Influence of Matt Patricia on Reese’s Development
Reese credited Ohio State defensive coordinator Matt Patricia with playing a significant role in his growth, praising Patricia’s defensive scheme for providing him with a broad understanding of all 11 defensive positions. He said he has absorbed knowledge almost subconsciously during his time under Patricia’s guidance, which enhanced his comprehension of complex defensive calls and schemes.
Speaking about Patricia’s impact, Reese remarked,
“He meant everything to all of us. I mean, he gave everybody the opportunity. I feel like the defense that he came in with was great. I loved it. The second he came in with it, it showed what it was going to be like and how much we could switch different packages up. I loved it.”
Reese on Competing with NFL Talent and His Draft Outlook
Reese drew parallels between the high level of competition at Ohio State and what he expects in the NFL, emphasizing the need to continually improve because “there’s dawgs everywhere” at both levels, meaning competition is intense and relentless. Regarding comparisons with other prospects, Reese stayed focused on self-improvement, stating that he concentrates mostly on his own development rather than measuring himself against others.
Reflecting on his interest in playing professionally, Reese shared enthusiasm about the New York Jets, saying his meeting with the team was positive and demonstrated their serious approach to roster building. He mentioned,
“That meeting was a lot of them installing something, wanted to see where my head was at. I think that’s a serious organization. And, yeah, I respect the guys I’ve met.”
Mentorship Under James Laurinaitis and Personal Influences
Reese praised linebacker coach James Laurinaitis, appreciating his guidance throughout all three years at Ohio State, especially Laurinaitis’ unique insight as a former Buckeye and College Football Hall of Famer. Reese valued the trust and mentorship, stating,
“He poured a lot into me. I took a lot from him and just trusted him, for sure.”
He also expressed happiness for Laurinaitis’ Hall of Fame induction, recognizing the accolade as well-deserved.
Reese Reflects on Playing for His Hometown Browns and Ohio State Legacy
Born in Cleveland, Reese envisioned how meaningful it would be to play for the Browns, acknowledging the special significance of representing his hometown at the NFL level. Additionally, he recalled his roots with the Titans youth program and reflected on becoming a role model for younger kids in his community, underlining the pride he feels about his journey and the example he sets for the next generation.
Sonny Styles Highlights His Versatility and Athleticism as a Linebacker
Sonny Styles described his capability to perform effectively across multiple linebacker positions — MIKE, WILL, and SAM. He emphasized his athleticism and his solid impact in run defense, while identifying zone coverage as an area for further growth based on his play last season. Styles also relished his meeting with Coach Sean Payton and enjoyed deep football discussions that allowed him to analyze plays and improve his understanding of the game.
Transition from Safety to Linebacker and Support from James Laurinaitis
Styles credited Laurinaitis with providing him confidence and expert guidance during his position switch in college, noting that the coach’s belief in his potential as a first-round linebacker came even before Styles fully believed it himself. The decision to move from safety to linebacker was driven by a desire to help the team win, and looking back, Styles feels the change was the right choice that has paid off in his career.
The Passion and Brotherhood Behind Playing Football
Expressing his longtime love of football, Styles traced his involvement in the sport back to age four and highlighted that competition and the fraternity with teammates are his two favorite aspects. He reflected on the shared struggles and successes with his team, describing that consistent effort throughout the offseason builds trust that holds the team together during the season.
Styles’ Connection to the Buccaneers and Ohio State Championship Memories
Looking ahead to potential NFL opportunities, Styles expressed excitement about the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, recalling his initial meeting with head coach Todd Bowles during recruiting and appreciating the coach’s character. Among his fondest memories at Ohio State, Styles singled out winning the national championship as a career highlight, along with the everyday experiences shared with teammates like bus rides and workouts.
Leadership and Legacy at Ohio State
Styles emphasized that his legacy is more about personal character and being a reliable teammate than statistical achievements. He focused on treating people well and leading by example, qualities he believes his peers and coaches respected. Styles expects people will remember him for his integrity and the way he interacted with others when he returns to Columbus in future years.
The Chemistry of Reese and Styles as a Linebacker Duo
When asked if they form the best linebacker duo in college football history, Reese humbly declined to rank themselves, acknowledging the presence of many great duos while affirming that their partnership is among the best. Both players shared a close bond, strengthened by playing alongside each other at a high level.
Playing Alongside Brother Lorenzo Styles Jr.
Styles described the unique experience of competing with his brother Lorenzo Styles Jr. as special and rare at such a high level. He conveyed the emotional connection they share on the field, noting moments of support and encouragement, which created memorable and meaningful experiences during games.
Styles’ Encouraging Meeting with the New York Giants and Vision for Run Defense
Styles praised Giants coaches John Harbaugh and Mike Bush for their professionalism during meetings. He shared his confidence in his ability to improve run defense based on his film study and physical play throughout the previous season while describing his approach to earning teammates’ trust and potentially leading the defense as a MIKE linebacker.
🚨 Ohio State LB Sonny Styles met with the Giants last night and was very impressive, per @art_stapleton.
“Have to think he’s now in play at No. 5 with Buckeye teammates WR Carnell Tate and S Caleb Downs,” Stapleton reported.
How would you feel about Sonny Styles with the… pic.twitter.com/TLUHJXfRea— Fireside Giants (@FiresideGiants) February 25, 2026
What Sonny Styles Contributes to an NFL Defense
Styles outlined the qualities he would bring to any NFL defense, citing versatility, intelligence, physicality, and consistency. He underscored the importance of adapting to different defensive schemes while maintaining leadership and reliability on the field.
Leadership Approach and Relationship-Building
According to Styles, his leadership is grounded in setting an example by consistently doing the right things and investing in relationships with teammates. He values open communication, which builds trust and fosters constructive dialogue when challenges arise within the team.
Draft Expectations and Personal Projections
Styles expressed confidence that regardless of his draft position, he can contribute meaningfully in any assigned role and become a champion in that capacity through dedication and hard work. For him, success comes from showing up each day and being consistent in preparation and performance.
Emphasizing Football Intelligence Alongside Athleticism
Highlighting his awareness of areas needing improvement, Styles described himself as an intelligent player who combines athleticism with game understanding. He stressed that in today’s NFL, being smart on the field is just as crucial as physical ability, and he aims to leverage his versatility to impact defenses from the second level.
Players Who Inspire Sonny Styles
Styles admires the play of linebacker Fred Warner of the San Francisco 49ers for his sideline-to-sideline speed, tackling prowess, and football IQ. He also looks up to former linebacker Luke Kuechly, noting Kuechly’s blend of athleticism and intelligence as a model for his own game.
Sonny Styles Praises Defensive Tackle Kayden McDonald
Styles called McDonald a formidable force in the middle of the defensive line whose ability to hold double teams and clog running lanes will delight defensive coordinators. He emphasized McDonald’s impact in stuffing the run and his presence as a disruptive force that can anchor any defense.
McDonald on His Strengths and NFL Pitch
Although details on Kayden McDonald’s reflections were limited, the context indicates he is recognized for stout nose tackle abilities, strength against blockers, and the capacity to make plays under pressure. His skill set positions him as a valuable asset in professional defensive schemes.
McDonald’s Gratitude for Support and Growth
McDonald acknowledged the significance of relationships fostered during his football journey, including his rapport with the Steelers organization and figures like Cameron Heyward. He values the opportunities to learn from established veterans and the sense of brotherhood within those environments.
Significance of Scouting Combine Insights for NFL Teams and Fans
The candid revelations from Reese, Styles, and McDonald offer NFL teams critical insights into their readiness and mindset as the draft approaches. Their detailed accounts of positional versatility, leadership acumen, and personal motivations underscore their potential impact at the professional level. For fans, these conversations deepen appreciation for the rigorous journey from college standouts to NFL hopefuls, shining a light on the dedication, mentorship, and mental toughness that shape elite athletes.
🚨 Ohio State LB Sonny Styles met with the Giants last night and was very impressive, per @art_stapleton.
"Have to think he's now in play at No. 5 with Buckeye teammates WR Carnell Tate and S Caleb Downs,” Stapleton reported.
How would you feel about Sonny Styles with the… pic.twitter.com/TLUHJXfRea
— Fireside Giants (@FiresideGiants) February 25, 2026
