Arvell Reese has become a standout prospect in this year's NFL Draft class. After declaring for the event in January, he's been consistently projected to go anywhere from second to seventh. With his 6'4″ build, 243-pound frame, and earning Consensus All-American honors in his first year as a starter, any team could target him.
But as the Draft comes closer, football fans are wondering more about his background and the journey to becoming an elite NFL prospect. Let's dive deeper into the parents who helped create the Ohio State star.
Ohio State Buckeyes linebacker Arvell Reese (8) reacts during the game against the Wisconsin Badgers at Camp Randall Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025 in Madison, Wisconsin.
Arvell Reese's parents are Maeko and Alex Reese.
His father, Alex Reese, played a crucial role in guiding Arvell and his siblings toward football, even after serving time in prison. Following his release, he actively supported Arvell's training, academics, and personal growth.
However, together, his parents helped influence Reese's decision to attend Ohio State, paving the way for his success as one of the top defenders in the 2026 NFL Draft class. His father reportedly spent an extended period of time in prison, which led to Arvell living with other family members.
From left, Ohio State Buckeyes defensive tackle Tywone Malone, linebacker Arvell Reese and defensive tackle Kayden McDonald work out during Pro Day for NFL scouts at the Woody Hayes Athletics Center on March 25, 2026.
Arvell's mother is Maeko Walker, who has admittedly been the source of the future NFL star's resilience. Unfortunately, Maeko suffered serious health complications since Arvell was in Grade 8, with the family even preparing for the possibility of losing her.
Maeko then spent months in the hospital, going under the knife a few times and needing physical therapy to regain her strength. But she never left her son's side, even attending his games at Ohio State Buckeyes in a wheelchair. Her showing up to these games is nothing new, though, as she used to carry a literal megaphone to Arvell's youth football camps to cheer him on, per the Columbus Dispatch .
Arvell Reese has four siblings. Two brothers, Alex Reese and Darquez Walker, and two sisters, Alexis Reese and Bria Dennis. Bria is in the Navy, and Alex is following in his brother's footsteps, playing football at Duquesne University. Meanwhile, Alexis plays basketball at Northwestern State University.
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