It appears the Madden developers have high hopes for Bailey in Year 1.
We know what a devastating pass rusher former Texas Tech star David Bailey can be, and after being drafted by the New York Jets, the franchise hopes so as well.
But of course, it is a hope rather than actually knowing, and now we have those at Madden giving their thoughts on what Bailey could be in his rookie season.
As part of Aaron Glenn's defense, it is expected that Bailey, if he maintains his health, will be in line for a lot of snaps, and that means ample chances to go quarterback hunting.
And for the Madden 27 video game, before its official release, some player ratings have been revealed, and it is good news for Bailey.
He has the third-highest rating overall, with 81, but wait, there's more.
Bailey is also the highest-rated edge rusher in the rookie class.
Looking at Bailey's ratings on ea.com, it is clear what the video game thinks of him: his speed (89) and acceleration (91) are his highest ratings.
So, he is going to be flying off the edge for the Jets.
Of course, Red Raiders fans knew this already, having seen Bailey wreak havoc last season.
He posted a whopping 19.5 tackles for loss and 14.5 sacks in just 14 games, while also having three forced fumbles. So, it is really easy to see why the Jets took him second overall.
And it appears that Madden has high hopes for what David can be in his rookie season, and yes, we know, these ratings mean absolutely nothing in the grand scheme of things, but it is a nod to what the developers think Bailey can be in Year 1.
Given the makeup of the Jets' defense, Bailey is going to be surrounded by good veterans who will help him navigate his first NFL season, and he is already off to a good start this offseason by all accounts.
So, he is getting his feet wet in the NFL, and there is no denying that Bailey possesses all the tools needed to translate his college game to the pros, and Glenn will be hoping that David can become the centerpiece in the coming years.
And having an 81 Madden rating isn't a bad way to begin your NFL career either, and I'd imagine if he becomes the player we think he can be, that will be the lowest he's rated for quite some time.
