The New York Jets may have found a blossoming star in rookie EDGE David Bailey.

As the No. 2 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, the expectations for the former Texas Tech standout were through the roof.

The Jets' struggles within the trenches last season were one of the most important areas that needed to be addressed this offseason, so the selection of Bailey came with plenty of hope that he could revamp the line in 2026. And with training camp in full swing, the young defensive end continues to make noise ahead of his rookie season.

When asked by reporters about Bailey's development this offseason, linebacker Jamien Sherwood gave high praise to the rookie, claiming that he is "a phenomenal pass rusher."

"I think Bailey is a phenomenal pass rusher; he's a great person, and I'm excited to have anyone on the team, but he's one person that stands out from the way he walks, talks, and approaches his workday day in and day out as a rookie," Sherwood stated. "I'm excited to see what he does this season."

After finishing with 26 total sacks in 2025, it's clear that the Jets needed a spark plug up front on defense to consistently apply pressure on opposing quarterbacks.

Luckily for the organization, Bailey proved to be the right fit for head coach Aaron Glenn's defense during his last college season. In 2025, Bailey finished the year with 52 tackles, 14.5 sacks, and three forced fumbles, which was enough for New York to use its first pick in the recent draft on the rising star.

According to multiple reports from inside the Jets' practice on Thursday, Bailey bull-rushed his way through both right tackle Armand Membou and running back Breece Hall to record a sack. The play caught the attention of his teammates, which prompted Sherwood to claim that Bailey can get past anyone when rushing the quarterback.

"I feel like he has the motor; no matter who's in front of him, he can get past them," Sherwood continued. "He's diligent about his efforts, and I'm excited to see what he does."

While the hype continues to grow around Bailey heading into his rookie season, the outstanding defensive chess piece is primed to become the team's catalyst on defense in 2026. Bailey's ability to apply pressure on opposing quarterbacks should help the Jets make great strides on the defensive side of the ball this season.