‘Consensus’ Points to New York Jets’ Selection with No. 2 Pick

TL;DR

The New York Jets are expected to select Texas Tech pass-rusher David Bailey with the No. 2 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, rather than Ohio State's Arvell Reese. Bailey's immediate impact and polished skills make him a more suitable choice for the Jets' current needs.

For months, many have assumed the Las Vegas Raiders will make quarterback Fernando Mendoza the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. But what will the New York Jets do with the No. 2 overall pick?

Again, many have expected the Jets to select freak athlete pass-rusher/linebacker Arvell Reese out of Ohio State. Yet, that may not be what Jets general manager Darren Mougey is planning to do on April 23, when the NFL Draft’s first round takes place.

According to Sports Illustrated‘s NFL insider Albert Breer, the Jets may instead be leaning toward selecting a different pass-rusher, Texas Tech’s David Bailey.

“There’s a reason why a consensus seems to be crystallizing that Texas Tech edge rusher David Bailey will be the second pick in the draft. Bailey is the guy who’ll help now—help get a defensive system off the ground, help create belief in the locker room and help provide that light at the end of the tunnel. He’s worthy of the pick, too, with sparkling advanced statistics backing up a lot of tape showing a plug-and-play, hand-in-the-ground pass rusher. That explains why so many NFL folks see this one coming down the tracks and why it would make so much sense for the Jets.”

SI’s Albert Breer on New York Jets’ plans at No. 2 pick

As noted, while Reese may have the higher overall ceiling, Bailey is the player who is more polished right now. After winning just three games last season, the Jets feel the urgency to win now, and Bailey may be more equipped to do that right now than Reese is.

So, if the Jets do turn to Bailey, it opens up the question to how far Reese will fall, and how that decision at the top will impact the rest of the top half of the 2026 NFL Draft. Reese likely won’t be available long, his wait may even end at the next pick, where the Tennessee Titans select third.

Related Headlines

Q&A

Why are the New York Jets considering David Bailey over Arvell Reese for the No. 2 pick?

The Jets are leaning towards David Bailey because he is seen as a more polished player who can provide immediate help to their defensive system.

What position does David Bailey play and what are his strengths?

David Bailey is an edge rusher, known for his advanced statistics and ability to be a plug-and-play player, making him a valuable asset for the Jets.

What impact did the Jets' poor performance last season have on their draft strategy?

After winning only three games last season, the Jets feel a sense of urgency to improve quickly, influencing their decision to prioritize a ready-to-contribute player like Bailey.