The New York Jets and general manager Darren Mougey take a swing on Texas Tech EDGE David Bailey with the No. 2 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.
After an offseason full of speculation, the New York Jets have found their cornerstone piece in Texas Tech EDGE David Bailey during the 2026 NFL Draft in Texas.
Despite all the rumors about what the struggling franchise could do with the No. 2 pick in this year's draft, general manager Darren Mougey and the front office decided to pass on selecting Ohio State star linebacker Arvell Reese. Instead, New York opted to take the safer, more experienced prospect in Bailey, who is coming off a dominant college career.
Prior to becoming one of the top prospects in the 2026 Draft class, Bailey spent his first three years in college with the Stanford Cardinals. During his time out west, the electric pass rusher recorded 111 tackles, 22.5 tackles for losses, and 14.5 sacks before entering the transfer portal in 2025.
From there, Bailey quickly made a name for himself at Texas Tech, as he finished his last college season with 52 tackles, 19.5 tackles for losses, 14.5 sacks, and three forced fumbles.
How Bailey Fits With Jets' Defense in 2026
Oct 18, 2025; Tempe, Arizona, USA; Texas Tech Red Raiders linebacker David Bailey (31) against the Arizona State Sun Devils at Mountain America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn ImagesOne of the main reasons why Bailey was considered a top prospect in this year's class is due to his incredible quickness off the line of scrimmage.
Standing at 6-foot-3, 251 lbs., the 22-year-old defender possesses an excellent blend of speed and athleticism that allows him to attack opposing teams' quarterbacks in a variety of ways. His stout style of play drew many comparisons to Denver Broncos' star pass rusher Nik Bonitto, who has quickly become one of the most underrated defenders in the NFL.
Looking at how Bailey fits into the Jets' defense in 2026 and beyond, head coach Aaron Glenn will now have a natural pass rusher to round out the front four.
Earlier this offseason, New York traded former 2022 first-round pick Jermaine Johnson II to the Tennessee Titans in exchange for defensive tackle T'Vondre Sweat, which creates room for Bailey to have an immediate impact next season. The highly-touted defensive end now joins veterans Joesph Ossai and Will McDonald IV as the primary EDGE rushers for Glenn in 2026.
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