ESPN is very high on New York Jets rookie David Bailey.
New York Jets rookie David Bailey received strong praise from ESPN NFL analyst Matt Bowen.
Here is what Bowen said about Bailey, the second overall pick in this year's draft:
"The most pro-ready pass rusher in the 2026 class, Bailey was drafted to upgrade a defense that produced just 26 sacks last season (second fewest). Bailey has the first-step quickness, flexibility to cut the corner and counters to win at the top of the rush. He will be expected to produce early in the season, which shouldn't be an issue after he tied for first in the FBS with 14.5 sacks in 2025."
Bailey had 19.5 tackles for loss and 14.5 sacks for Texas Tech in 2025. He projects to be a stud for the Jets for years to come.
Bailey was pumped to tell Jets reporters what a sack does for him. NYJ drafted a player with a high motor.
"Oh, man, I'm so glad you asked me about that feeling," Bailey said. "That feeling, it's like no other.. ... I have a lot of motivations for why I play the game and that's one of them, that feeling when you get a sack and the crowd is, you know, on your side, especially during a home game. But regardless home or away, it's one of the best feelings."
The Jets went 3-14 last season in Year 1 of the Aaron Glenn era. They became the first team in NFL history to not record a defensive interception and lose five straight games by 23 or more points within a single season.
Glenn is going to call defensive plays next season. Does that mean the Jets will be better on defense? Only time will tell.
What we do know is that Bailey is excited to be with the Jets.
"It's surreal to me, man. It's a great experience. It's an awesome opportunity," Bailey said. "I'm grateful to all the fans who came out here tonight. I just want to be a sponge, soak up everything and make me the best player I can be to help this organization. I think they want to go in the right direction, and I'm just ready to work."
The Jets open the 2026 season against the Tennessee Titans. Let's see if Bailey gets his first NFL sack against Cam Ward.
