New York Jets Trending Toward Catastrophic NFL Draft Mistake

The New York Jets own the No. 2 overall pick in the NFL Draft, and it seems like they are probably going to take a pass rusher.

That makes sense, considering the Jets managed just 26 sacks in 2025. Let's also remember that they traded Quinnen Williams midway through the campaign.

Word on the street is that Texas Tech's David Bailey and Ohio State's Arvell Reese are the two favorites for New York with its top draft pick, and in the case of Bailey, it's entirely understandable.

After all, Bailey racked up 52 tackles, 19.5 tackles for loss and 14.5 sacks in 2025. He is a stud, and he may very well be the best edge rusher in this draft class.

But Reese? Are the Jets honestly thinking of taking him at No. 2 when Miami's Rueben Bain should be the only other option?

Yeah, I get it: Reese is very athletic, but what has he actually proven? He projects as an edge on the NFL level even though he played a lot of off-ball linebacker in college, and he really only has one year of serious production.

As far as Bain is concerned, people are making too much of his short arms. So what? That means he can play 3-tech, having the ability to play both on the end and inside. Think New York Giants legend Justin Tuck, who also had short arms.

Unlike Reese, Bain actually has an established track record. He received significant playing time the second he got to Miami in 2023, registering 44 tackles, 12.5 tackles for loss, 7.5 sacks and three forced fumbles. Incredible numbers for a freshman.

Bain missed some time due to injuries the following year, but this past season, he recorded 54 tackles, 15.5 tackles for loss, 9.5 sacks and an interception.

Remember: Bain was viewed by many as the top overall talent in this year's draft class heading into 2025, and I really don't think that should change so drastically just because of his measurements.

I wouldn't have a problem with the Jets taking Bailey at No. 2. I think he will be a star. But Reese is far too risky of a pick for a New York squad that absolutely has to get it right this offseason.

And if the Jets really want to ace the draft? Then Bain should be their top pick, and if they can trade down and still land him, then all the better.

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