NFL
Why Jets drafted David Bailey instead of Arvell Reese at No. 2 in NFL Draft
Jets draft David Bailey instead of Arvell Reese at No. 2 in NFL Draft
Yahoo Sports1 min read
NFL
Arvell Reese would've been safer Jets pick than David Bailey
TL;DR
The New York Jets selected David Bailey with the No. 2 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, but draft experts suggest Arvell Reese would have been a safer choice.
Key points
- Jets picked David Bailey with No. 2 overall pick in 2026 NFL Draft
- Arvell Reese was a potential alternative pick
- Draft experts indicate Bailey carries more risk
Mentioned in this story
Texas TechOhio State
New York JetsDavid BaileyArvell Reese
Arvell Reese would've been safer Jets pick than David Bailey originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The New York Jets used the No. 2 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft on David Bailey out of Texas Tech.
They could've taken Ohio State's Arvell Reese, and that decision could turn out to be a mistake.
Bailey comes with more risk for two reasons explained by a draft expert.
2026 NFL DRAFT HQ:Live tracker | Pick-by-pick grades | Best players still available
ESPN's Mel Kiper Jr. explained on the draft that Bailey hadn't been as good a player at Stanford, and that wasn't it.
Kiper also pointed out that Bailey is just a pass-rusher. If he doesn't make it work at that position in the NFL, that's it.
MORE:The full origin story of ESPN's NFL Draft pick chime
Reese came with a potential fallback option. Kiper shared that Reese could be an off-ball linebacker if he doesn't turn into a dominant edge rusher.
Kiper also compared Reese to Micah Parsons, which is a serious upside name.
Best names in the draft:Ephesians Prysock | | |
Q&A
Why did the Jets choose David Bailey over Arvell Reese?
The Jets selected David Bailey due to his potential, despite concerns about the risks associated with his selection.
What are the risks associated with David Bailey's selection by the Jets?
David Bailey's selection comes with risks related to his performance and fit, as highlighted by a draft expert.
How does Arvell Reese compare to David Bailey in the 2026 NFL Draft?
Arvell Reese is considered a safer pick than David Bailey, according to draft analysis.
