I'm on board with Reese at 3

[Chopper0080]

The thing is that I believe Reese is a phenomenal ILB prospect, while just being a good EDGE prospect. This isn’t close to Simmons or Zaven. I think Bailey has an explosive first step, but there are still major concerns to me. The fact a TE can get the best of him blocking scares the hell out of me.

Agreed. If you classified Reese as an off ball LB, I prefer him to Styles for sure. Reese is a missle.

Re: Bailey. I know you have concerns about his bend, but I believe the physicality question is the biggest question mark he has. That first step is special.

 

[oaken1]

A little misconception here...Reese has a position, it is off ball LB. I think he is a better off ball LB than Styles. The question is whether or not he can be an EDGE at the NFL level and he just does not have much tape to really show what that would look like based on how he was used in college.

Is he Dansby?
Or the ever elusive DWash replacement?

 

[Harry]

I’ve already posted I’m not opposed to taking Reese at 3, but we need to understand it’s a gamble. The Cards could win big with him, but he has a. Significa nt bust potential. This article does a good job of laying that out.

Arvell Reese's rawness as a pass rusher both a pro and con - Arizona Sports

How should Ohio State pass rusher Arvell Reese's rawness at the position be interpreted heading into the 2026 NFL Draft?

arizonasports.com

 

[Gandhi]

The thing is that I believe Reese is a phenomenal ILB prospect, while just being a good EDGE prospect. This isn’t close to Simmons or Zaven.

Don’t worry. The Cardinals have several coaches on their new staff with experience in developing edge rushers, but there are also other reasons to draft Reese that are mostly due to Nick Rallis’ scheme.

First, the entire thing is built on multiplicity and disguising. The main point is that the offense doesn’t know what will hit them and from what angles, as well as who will drop back into coverage. Reese is exceptional as a blitzer, great in coverage (typical ILB stuff) and is obviously developing in pass rushing.

Second, Reese is what you could call a “force multiplier” in Rallis’ system. It just means that Reese’s versatility in several different aspects forces the offense to account for him in many ways, which then helps every other defender.

Third, an “edge rusher” in Rallis’ scheme doesn’t necessarily mean standing up on the should of the OT. Rallis moves his rushers around, so an “edge “might rush from other angles both in the middle and outside. The goal is to find the weakest link on the offensive line and then move your best pass rusher to exploit him. An example as case in point: last season, Josh Sweat lined up as a traditional edge on 50% of his defensive snaps, 16% as an interior defensive lineman, and 34% as an off-ball linebacker (in Rallis’ scheme).

Fourth, Rallis calls a ton of simulated pressure packages, which basically means to show the quarterback six potential rushers, but in reality only send four. Because of Reese’s versatility, this strategy works much better with him on the field.

Having Reese on the defense would allow Rallis to use a much bigger part of the playbook than the last couple of seasons, so already as a rookie he would be a wonderful scheme fit. He would not only have a traditional position, but more importantly, he would fill an extremely important role. He would be like a key to unlocking it all.

Oh, and by the way, some posters will tell you that Rallis’ system doesn’t matter, since he is basically pre-fired. Don’t listen to that. I am sure the organization does in fact hope to be successful.

 

[Stout]

Don’t worry. The Cardinals have several coaches on their new staff with experience in developing edge rushers, but there are also other reasons to draft Reese that are mostly due to Nick Rallis’ scheme.

First, the entire thing is built on multiplicity and disguising. The main point is that the offense doesn’t know what will hit them and from what angles, as well as who will drop back into coverage. Reese is exceptional as a blitzer, great in coverage (typical ILB stuff) and is obviously developing in pass rushing.

Second, Reese is what you could call a “force multiplier” in Rallis’ system. It just means that Reese’s versatility in several different aspects forces the offense to account for him in many ways, which then helps every other defender.

Third, an “edge rusher” in Rallis’ scheme doesn’t necessarily mean standing up on the should of the OT. Rallis moves his rushers around, so an “edge “might rush from other angles both in the middle and outside. The goal is to find the weakest link on the offensive line and then move your best pass rusher to exploit him. An example as case in point: last season, Josh Sweat lined up as a traditional edge on 50% of his defensive snaps, 16% as an interior defensive lineman, and 34% as an off-ball linebacker (in Rallis’ scheme).

Fourth, Rallis calls a ton of simulated pressure packages, which basically means to show the quarterback six potential rushers, but in reality only send four. Because of Reese’s versatility, this strategy works much better with him on the field.

Having Reese on the defense would allow Rallis to use a much bigger part of the playbook than the last couple of seasons, so already as a rookie he would be a wonderful scheme fit. He would not only have a traditional position, but more importantly, he would fill an extremely important role. He would be like a key to unlocking it all.

Oh, and by the way, some posters will tell you that Rallis’ system doesn’t matter, since he is basically pre-fired. Don’t listen to that. I am sure the organization does in fact hope to be successful.

Who? I know you keep repeated Austin and co, but they did not develop any of the edge rushers you mention. We are not a coaching staff set up to succeed with adjusting player position.

 

[CardNots]

Cards are in a good spot and let's hope that Monti doesn't blow it.

What outcome would be considered NOT blowing it?

 

[Gandhi]

Who? I know you keep repeated Austin and co, but they did not develop any of the edge rushers you mention. We are not a coaching staff set up to succeed with adjusting player position.

Come on, Stout, you don’t think he had a hand in player development as a senior advisor?

And then there is Pete Kwiatkowski who at Texas pretty much invented the “Jack”-position which is basically almost the same as I just explained Reese in. Kwiatkowski developed Collin Simmons to play that role, and now Simmons is widely expected to be a top draft pick next year. Or I could mention Anthony Hill who is not that different from Reese, and who might become a first-round pick in some days. Kwiatkowski also coached him up.

Now, some will argue that Kwiatkowski did it in college and that he has never proven anything in the NFL, but I would counter-argue that having extensive knowledge of player development with young players is a major advantage when trying to help rookies.

 

[az jam]

What outcome would be considered NOT blowing it?

You should get an impact player with the #3rd pick. Also drafting quality players that actually perform well especially those from the first three rounds. You won't really know this for a couple of years.

 

[Chopper0080]

Come on, Stout, you don’t think he had a hand in player development as a senior advisor?

And then there is Pete Kwiatkowski who at Texas pretty much invented the “Jack”-position which is basically almost the same as I just explained Reese in. Kwiatkowski developed Collin Simmons to play that role, and now Simmons is widely expected to be a top draft pick next year. Or I could mention Anthony Hill who is not that different from Reese, and who might become a first-round pick in some days. Kwiatkowski also coached him up.

Now, some will argue that Kwiatkowski did it in college and that he has never proven anything in the NFL, but I would counter-argue that having extensive knowledge of player development with young players is a major advantage when trying to help rookies.

We have seen that with the staff recently and all of the coaches they have brought in from the college ranks. The Cardinals have been developing all kinds of draft picks into quality, starting NFL players.

 

[CardNots]

You won't really know this for a couple of years.

Unfortunately

 

[Stout]

Come on, Stout, you don’t think he had a hand in player development as a senior advisor?

And then there is Pete Kwiatkowski who at Texas pretty much invented the “Jack”-position which is basically almost the same as I just explained Reese in. Kwiatkowski developed Collin Simmons to play that role, and now Simmons is widely expected to be a top draft pick next year. Or I could mention Anthony Hill who is not that different from Reese, and who might become a first-round pick in some days. Kwiatkowski also coached him up.

Now, some will argue that Kwiatkowski did it in college and that he has never proven anything in the NFL, but I would counter-argue that having extensive knowledge of player development with young players is a major advantage when trying to help rookies.

No, I really don't think he developed Watt. C'mon man. Then you go on to claim the new college coach can do it in the pros. Maybe he can and maybe he can't, but he's certainly not proven at this level--and let's not talk about the college coach we elevated to OL coach and the crap show that was. This team's ability to develop players who don't have a single college position is at the very, very best a complete unknown; at worst, they are terrible at it. I'm not saying it's possible, but you're presenting it as if they are bang on able to do so. They very much still have to prove that they are.

 

[MadCardDisease]

That's if the Jets don't take him at 2, which I think is a real possibility.

Matt Patricia, OSU's DC, has said privately that if they just played Reese at edge all year he could have led the nation in sacks, or been right there.

But he was so good and versatile that they played him other roles to best suit the defense, which was the best in the country. Being versatile is not a bad thing. Play him in one role on early downs, get after the QB on others.

The NFL is going to listen to what Patricia has to say with all his excellence as a DC.

Bailey is a great prospect and a pass rusher only. The Cards have that guy in Sweat. Reese is the better prospect with a much higher ceiling and a better fit.

Hes not an Isaiah Simmons at all. Hes closer to a Parsons.

My first choice is still probably Love but Reese is the better pick for the Cards.

A lot of this info is coming from a former OSU NFL linebacker I saw today.

Waiting for the OSU homer remarks even though I've been hesitant to call for Reese and have made known my thoughts on Styles.

If the Jets take Bailey at #2 and the Cardinals stay at #3 overall, I wouldn't be opposed to taking Reese.

First off I agree 100% that Reece is not Simmons and is closer to Fred Warner actually. I think that Reese fits what Rallis likes to do in that Rallis likes to disguise his defenses to keep the QB guessing. Adding Reese would add a ton of unpredictability to the Cardinals front 7 for opposing offenses.

I also agree with Harry that there is more risk involved with selecting Reese but the reward if you hit is sky high.

 

[Gandhi]

We have seen that with the staff recently and all of the coaches they have brought in from the college ranks. The Cardinals have been developing all kinds of draft picks into quality, starting NFL players.

You do know that it is a new coaching staff who have not been with the team during a draft yet? I mean, if you don't even know that I can see why you would have a hard time understanding the situation.

 

[Gandhi]

No, I really don't think he developed Watt. C'mon man. Then you go on to claim the new college coach can do it in the pros. Maybe he can and maybe he can't, but he's certainly not proven at this level--and let's not talk about the college coach we elevated to OL coach and the crap show that was. This team's ability to develop players who don't have a single college position is at the very, very best a complete unknown; at worst, they are terrible at it. I'm not saying it's possible, but you're presenting it as if they are bang on able to do so. They very much still have to prove that they are.

What? I have not said that he has developed Watt. I have said that he likely played a role in the development of Alex Highsmith and Nick Herbig. And I very specifically wrote that Kwiatkowski has not proven his ability in the NFL, yet.

I stand by, though, that you, me and nobody else know if they can develop rookies, and because of that, the teams’ history with developing hybrid players matters exactly 0%.

 

[Chopper0080]

You do know that it is a new coaching staff who have not been with the team during a draft yet? I mean, if you don't even know that I can see why you would have a hard time understanding the situation.

I get you want to give these new coaches the benefit of doubt. I choose to acknowledge what they can do after they have shown they can do it. You choose to think a former CB and career secondary/DC had a sole in developing pass rushers in Pittsburgh. I choose to believe that is a huge stretch.

 

[Krangodnzr]

What? I have not said that he has developed Watt. I have said that he likely played a role in the development of Alex Highsmith and Nick Herbig. And I very specifically wrote that Kwiatkowski has not proven his ability in the NFL, yet.

I stand by, though, that you, me and nobody else know if they can develop rookies, and because of that, the teams’ history with developing hybrid players matters exactly 0%.

I doubt he has a role in their development, but I think you can argue that he might know how to use one

 

[dreamcastrocks]

Is he Dansby?
Or the ever elusive DWash replacement?

That's who I thought Simmons was going to be... sigh

 

[Crimson Warrior]

I want defense, specifically front-seven, too.

nasty, violent front sevens win championships now, just like they did 20 years ago, just like they did 50 years ago.

So if that’s Reese, let’s get him in here.

Using a #3 pick on middling RT talent is stupid. Love would be plan B.

 

[Redsz]

Wonderful. Another off ball linebacker that we can add to the rest of the failed collection.

 

[Stout]

What? I have not said that he has developed Watt. I have said that he likely played a role in the development of Alex Highsmith and Nick Herbig. And I very specifically wrote that Kwiatkowski has not proven his ability in the NFL, yet.

I stand by, though, that you, me and nobody else know if they can develop rookies, and because of that, the teams’ history with developing hybrid players matters exactly 0%.

Sorry, not Watt. I don't think he played a role in the development of Highsmith or Herbig either. He's not a LBers coach. At best, he helped mentor them in the defensive scheme, which isn't developing them as edges.

You aren't blowing my skirt up with their ability to develop tweener rookies or not. If they haven't proven they can, why should I have confidence in their ability to do so?

 

[BullheadCardFan]

Arvell Reese is the betting favorite to be drafted No. 2 overall

There's no suspense about who the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NFL draft will be, as the Raiders haven't hidden their plans to take Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza.

www.nbcsports.com

 

[Stout]

Arvell Reese is the betting favorite to be drafted No. 2 overall

There's no suspense about who the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NFL draft will be, as the Raiders haven't hidden their plans to take Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza.

www.nbcsports.com

Oh please oh please oh please...

 

[Krangodnzr]

Sorry, not Watt. I don't think he played a role in the development of Highsmith or Herbig either. He's not a LBers coach. At best, he helped mentor them in the defensive scheme, which isn't developing them as edges.

You aren't blowing my skirt up with their ability to develop tweener rookies or not. If they haven't proven they can, why should I have confidence in their ability to do so?

I think players develop themselves at the NFL level.

Bruce Arians said what I suspected on All or Nothing: in an NFL environment there isn't time to actually develop players. You run so many players through drills and if they don't get it, they don't get it. Very little one-on-one development happens in the NFL.

 

[Harry]

I’m hearing the Jets moved off him because they don’t believe he’s a sure thing. They’d rather take Bailey and know what they’re getting.

 

[Gandhi]

If they haven't proven they can, why should I have confidence in their ability to do so?

I don’t know. Personally, I like to have hope, and that is why I believe in what the coaches have done previously. And I mean, Scott McCurley and Aden Durde are the two coaches responsible for Micah Parsons’ development. What other coaches – at the NFL level – have successful turned an off-ball linebacker into a world class edge rusher? Andre Patterson is probably the most accomplished (and Rallis worked with him, by the way) with hybrid-edges in general, but who else? Shane Bowen and Terrell Williams coached up Harold Landry with the Titans. Mike Smith molded Andrew Van Ginkel with the Vikings. Any other?

Cardinals have a defensive line coach who have proven multiple times at big colleges that he can coach players up to that specific role in college ranks. They have a senior advisor who has been on a coaching staff (even though I have understood that he has never talked to any of the coaches or players from that team) that have developed several hybrid edge players. They have a DC who has a history together with one of the best hybrid-edge coaches in the NFL and was part of utilizing a player (Reddick) to become one of the best hybrid edge-players in the NFL.

What do you guys want? To your credit, you have never made it a secret that you don’t want them to draft Reese. Others have not which is simply just strange.