Arvell Reese raises the question, is there a better version of Isiah Simmons? The mere suggestion may drive most Cardinal fans to distraction. I must give fair warning I’m not an endorser and that may have impacted this appraisal. Many reviewers think if properly coached he can become the next Micah Parsons. If they’re right he’d be hard to pass on. For me I’m concerned about how he disappeared in multiple games.
Reese is quite the physical specimen. 6’4”, 243, strong and he runs a 4.52. He’s unquestionably a great athlete. Assessors love his versatility, but note PFF grades were mediocre except at outside LB. I think it is fair to say, like Daniels, he’s certain to be a successful rusher on passing downs.
Here’s the good stuff. As a pass rusher he has a quick first step, good bend when needed, an excellent closing burst and solid tackling form. His tackling in particular stands out displaying violence, powerful hands and an exceptional tackling radius. As a run stopper, his tackling ability makes him a good run stopper with lateral agility that allows him move from sideline to sideline.
His problems are noteworthy but he is very coachable convincing many these issues are correctable. The biggest concern is he’s a liability in pass coverage. In man he has trouble mirroring and recovering out of breaks. In zone he reacts slowly and has a reputation for covering grass(phrase used by scouts for players who miss the point of zone). He fails to consistently get a deep enough drop to seal the middle. For some these problems are so severe they question if he can be a 3 down LB. He reminds me of White in pass coverage.
Other issues include getting repeatedly suckered by play action. He also takes the bait on QB run/pass options chasing the runner without the ball. Cutbacks also can fool him. When he gets to the ball carrier he makes the play. He’s just not always in the right place. Keep in mind these concerns only happen occasionally. His pass rushing technique also has flaws. He allows himself to be caught up with blockers seemingly trying to show off his strength. Like Daniels he can lose contain by leaving a gap. He does reduce this concern with his long arms and burst to overtake escaping QBs. Finally it’s worth noting he’s gotten by on quickness and speed when rushing rather than developing a wide array of moves.
This is a talented player with great potential. He could be worth the third pick. He won’t be worthless. I’m not certain he’ll be outstanding.
Reese is quite the physical specimen. 6’4”, 243, strong and he runs a 4.52. He’s unquestionably a great athlete. Assessors love his versatility, but note PFF grades were mediocre except at outside LB. I think it is fair to say, like Daniels, he’s certain to be a successful rusher on passing downs.
Here’s the good stuff. As a pass rusher he has a quick first step, good bend when needed, an excellent closing burst and solid tackling form. His tackling in particular stands out displaying violence, powerful hands and an exceptional tackling radius. As a run stopper, his tackling ability makes him a good run stopper with lateral agility that allows him move from sideline to sideline.
His problems are noteworthy but he is very coachable convincing many these issues are correctable. The biggest concern is he’s a liability in pass coverage. In man he has trouble mirroring and recovering out of breaks. In zone he reacts slowly and has a reputation for covering grass(phrase used by scouts for players who miss the point of zone). He fails to consistently get a deep enough drop to seal the middle. For some these problems are so severe they question if he can be a 3 down LB. He reminds me of White in pass coverage.
Other issues include getting repeatedly suckered by play action. He also takes the bait on QB run/pass options chasing the runner without the ball. Cutbacks also can fool him. When he gets to the ball carrier he makes the play. He’s just not always in the right place. Keep in mind these concerns only happen occasionally. His pass rushing technique also has flaws. He allows himself to be caught up with blockers seemingly trying to show off his strength. Like Daniels he can lose contain by leaving a gap. He does reduce this concern with his long arms and burst to overtake escaping QBs. Finally it’s worth noting he’s gotten by on quickness and speed when rushing rather than developing a wide array of moves.
This is a talented player with great potential. He could be worth the third pick. He won’t be worthless. I’m not certain he’ll be outstanding.
