Betting markets are beginning to shape expectations for the 2026 NFL Draft, and Ohio State defender Arvell Reese has now emerged as the leading candidate to be selected third overall by the Arizona Cardinals.
Recent odds from sportsbooks suggest the Cardinals are strongly considering adding a pass rusher with their top draft pick. Reese has gained momentum in the betting markets, moving ahead of several other top prospects.
Latest Draft Odds for the No. 3 Pick
According to the latest betting lines, the race for the third overall pick includes several defensive and offensive prospects. However, Reese currently sits at the top of the list.
| Player | Odds to Be Selected No. 3 |
|---|---|
| Arvell Reese | +125 |
| David Bailey | +330 |
| Francis Mauigoa | +480 |
| Jeremiyah Love | +950 |
| Sonny Styles | +1100 |
| Rueben Bain Jr. | +1200 |
The betting pattern suggests Arizona may select whichever top edge rusher remains available after the New York Jets make their decision with the No. 2 pick.
Reese’s Rise as a Top Draft Prospect
Arvell Reese has gained significant attention during the pre-draft process due to his athletic ability and defensive impact at Ohio State.
During the 2025 season, Reese recorded 6.5 sacks and 10 tackles for loss, demonstrating his ability to disrupt offenses and pressure quarterbacks. Scouts have been impressed by his combination of speed, power, and versatility on the defensive line.
Another factor boosting Reese’s draft stock is his age. He is two years younger than fellow prospect David Bailey, which many evaluators believe gives him greater long-term development potential at the professional level.
Read Also: Patriots 2026 NFL Draft: EDGE Rushers to Watch in Every Round
Comparison With David Bailey
Texas Tech edge rusher David Bailey remains one of Reese’s main competitors near the top of the draft board.
Bailey posted stronger overall statistical production and is listed slightly heavier than Reese. Both players are similar in height and have shown strong pass-rushing ability at the college level.
However, Reese’s physical traits and game film have convinced many scouts that he could quickly become a productive edge defender in the NFL.
Why the Cardinals Need a Pass Rusher
The Arizona Cardinals struggled to generate consistent pressure during the 2025 NFL season.
The team finished with just 30 sacks, ranking 28th in the league. One of the most telling statistics was that veteran defensive lineman Calais Campbell, who is now 39 years old, finished second on the team with 6.5 sacks.
Those numbers highlight Arizona’s need to add younger talent to its defensive front.
The team’s front office, led by general manager Monti Ossenfort, discussed roster plans during the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis earlier this year. Strengthening the pass rush appears to be one of the team’s top priorities.
Adding Reese could give the Cardinals a promising young defender who could work alongside edge rusher Josh Sweat and help rebuild the team’s defensive front.
Key Draft Storylines to Watch
| Player / Team | Key Update |
|---|---|
| Arvell Reese (Ohio State) | Current betting favorite for No. 3 pick; recorded 6.5 sacks and 10 tackles for loss in 2025 |
| David Bailey (Texas Tech) | Close competitor for top defensive prospect; slightly heavier with strong production |
| Fernando Mendoza (Indiana) | Heavy favorite to be selected No. 1 overall |
| Arizona Cardinals | Finished 2025 with 30 sacks, ranking 28th in the NFL |
| Calais Campbell | Veteran defensive lineman, age 39, had 6.5 sacks in 2025 |
What Could Happen on Draft Night
Much of the Cardinals’ decision may depend on what happens with the second overall pick.
If the New York Jets select either Reese or Bailey, Arizona could simply take the remaining top pass rusher at No. 3.
Teams and analysts will also closely monitor pre-draft visits, Combine evaluations, and private workouts as the Cardinals finalize their strategy.
With a major need on the defensive line and several talented prospects available, the third pick in the 2026 NFL Draft could play a key role in shaping Arizona’s defense for years to come.
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