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Cowboys' best NFL draft fits include Ohio State star linebacker

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  Published in Health and Fitness on Saturday, October 18th 2025 at 11:56 GMT by Sports Illustrated
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Dallas Cowboys Eye Arvell Reese: Ohio State Linebacker a Potential Draft Fit

The Dallas Cowboys, facing critical needs on defense, are reportedly showing significant interest in Ohio State linebacker Arvell Reese as the 2024 NFL draft approaches. A recent piece by John Pluess of Sports Illustrated details why Reese could be an ideal fit for Dan Quinn’s defensive scheme and addresses his strengths, weaknesses, and potential role within the Cowboys' roster.

Reese, listed at 6’1” and 235 pounds, has steadily improved throughout his Ohio State career, culminating in a standout 2023 season. He began as a rotational player but blossomed into a key contributor, showcasing versatility by playing both inside and outside linebacker positions. This adaptability is a significant factor attracting the Cowboys' attention, given their need for players who can fulfill multiple roles within Quinn’s complex defensive framework.

The article highlights Reese’s exceptional instincts and coverage ability. He consistently demonstrates an aptitude for reading offenses and anticipating plays, allowing him to effectively disrupt passing lanes and support the run defense. His speed and agility are also noted as key assets; he possesses the athleticism to cover tight ends and running backs in pass-heavy schemes, a crucial requirement in today’s NFL. Film study reveals a player who consistently navigates through traffic to make impactful tackles, often behind the line of scrimmage.

According to SI's analysis, Reese projects as an immediate contributor on special teams, providing valuable experience while he develops within the linebacker corps. This is particularly appealing for Dallas, which has historically utilized rookies in key special teams roles. The Cowboys’ need at linebacker is well-documented; Damone Clark remains a question mark due to injury history and the team lacks a consistently impactful presence at inside linebacker alongside Lee Johnson. Reese could potentially fill that void, offering both immediate help and long-term potential.

Pluess's piece also delves into Reese’s areas for improvement. While his instincts are strong, he occasionally struggles with maintaining consistent gap discipline in run support. He can be susceptible to being leveraged out of position by more powerful offensive linemen. Furthermore, while his pass rush moves have improved, they still lack the refinement and explosiveness seen in elite edge rushers. The article suggests that continued development in these areas will be crucial for Reese’s success at the professional level.

The Sports Illustrated piece references comparisons to former Ohio State linebacker Joshua Proctor, who was drafted by the Indianapolis Colts in 2021. Proctor, like Reese, possessed excellent instincts and coverage skills but faced challenges with physicality and consistency against the run. This comparison underscores both the potential upside and the developmental hurdles that Reese may encounter.

The Cowboys’ draft strategy has been characterized by a focus on versatile players who can contribute to multiple facets of the defense. Dan Quinn's system demands adaptability, and Reese’s ability to play both inside and outside linebacker aligns perfectly with this philosophy. His coverage skills are particularly valuable given the league-wide trend towards more passing offenses.

The article also touches upon the competitive landscape for Reese. He is currently projected as a second or third-round pick, meaning he could be off the board before the Cowboys’ next two picks (currently #26 and #51). This necessitates careful evaluation and potentially aggressive maneuvering by Dallas if they are truly committed to securing his services.

Further research into Ohio State's linebacker development program reveals a history of producing NFL-caliber players, suggesting that Reese has benefited from high-quality coaching and preparation. The Buckeyes’ defensive scheme also emphasizes versatility and adaptability, further reinforcing Reese’s readiness for the complexities of Dan Quinn’s system. The team’s official website ([ https://www.si.com/nfl/cowboys/news/dallas-cowboys-best-nfl-draft-fits-ohio-state-star-linebacker-arvell-reese ]) includes video highlights showcasing Reese’s athleticism and playmaking ability, further illustrating the qualities that have drawn the Cowboys' attention.

Ultimately, Arvell Reese represents a potentially high-reward prospect for the Dallas Cowboys. His versatility, instincts, and coverage skills address critical needs within their defense, while his areas for improvement offer opportunities for growth under Dan Quinn’s tutelage. His draft position will likely dictate whether he becomes a Cowboy, but the early indications suggest that he is firmly on their radar as they prepare for the 2024 NFL Draft.