NFL analyst gives Arvell Reese a comparison Jets fans will adore

The New York Jets are seemingly expected to use the No. 2 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft on Ohio State outside linebacker Arvell Reese despite a late push from Texas Tech pass rusher David Bailey, as the former's rare athletic ability is worth developing.

The tough part about picking Reese, especially for a jaded fanbase that has seen multiple big Draft failures in the past, is that his lack of a defined role means that most of his success will come via projection. That uncertainty may not appeal to Jets fans who want more of a sure thing at No. 2 overall.

Mike Renner, formerly of Pro Football Focus, believes that there is a very obvious comparison for Reese in terms of his size and style of play. If he turns out to be as good as the player he is being compared to, the Jets will have hit a grand slam with this selection.

Renner compared Reese to Houston Texans All-Pro Will Anderson, as he has managed to become an All-Pro player and Defensive Player of the Year runner-up despite a smaller frame. If the Jets land someone of Anderson's caliber in Reese, the defense could be transformed overnight.

Mike Renner compares possible Jets pick Arvell Reese to Will Anderson

Anderson, who was picked third overall by the Texans after acquiring C.J. Stroud with the pick before in 2023, differs from Reese in that his collegiate production for an end (over 100 tackles) was unprecedented. Anderson has been named a Pro Bowler twice and recorded 30 sacks in his first three seasons.

Even though Reese isn't going to be as much of a sack artist, he could match up well with Anderson in terms of his ability to cause chaos and havoc. Due to his high-pressure rate when rushing the passer, experience at linebacker, and edge-setting skill, Reese has oodles of potential.

Reese could start immediately on the edge next to what will likely be a combination of Will McDonald and Joseph Ossai. In certain packages, however, the Jets may kick Reese to inside linebacker, a freedom that very few athletes in the NFL can provide.

There is a future where Reese ends up becoming a game-changing starter for the Jets, and if he follows the Anderson developmental pipeline, the Jets as a whole could be a much more ferocious defense in the 2026 season and beyond.