Jets Weigh Defensive Talent at No. 2 Pick

Texas Tech edge rusher David Bailey emerges as potential target, but run defense concerns linger.

Apr. 12, 2026 at 3:24pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting the explosive motion of a football player rushing the passer, with sharp, overlapping planes of navy blue, forest green, and burnt orange conveying the raw energy of the sport.The Jets' unconventional draft strategy could lead them to prioritize an elite pass rusher over traditional offensive talent.NYC Today

The New York Jets are considering taking a defensive player, specifically edge rusher David Bailey from Texas Tech, with the second overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. This would mark a departure from the team's typical approach of prioritizing offensive talent early. Bailey's impressive pass-rushing statistics have caught the attention of the Jets' analytics-driven front office, but his perceived weakness against the run could be a concern for a team looking to shore up its defense.

Why it matters

The Jets have never taken a defensive player as high as No. 2 overall, making this a significant shift in their draft strategy. Selecting Bailey could provide a much-needed boost to their pass rush, which struggled in 2025, but it would also leave them vulnerable against the run if paired with another edge rusher. This decision will have long-term implications for the direction of the Jets' defense.

The details

Bailey recorded 154 pressures in 823 pass rushes over his college career, a 18.7% pressure rate that is the best among FBS players since 2016. His 20.4% pressure rate in 2025 was the third-best individual season in the last 10 years. The Jets' analytics-driven approach means Bailey's impressive numbers will carry significant weight in their evaluation process. However, Bailey has acknowledged that he needs to improve as a run defender, which could be a concern for the Jets if they pair him with another edge rusher like Will McDonald IV.

  • The Jets' offseason program, which is voluntary, begins on April 20.
  • OTA practices don't begin until May 27.
  • The only mandatory event -- minicamp -- is June 16-18.

The players

David Bailey

A pure edge rusher from Texas Tech who has put up impressive pass-rushing statistics, including a 18.7% career pressure rate that is the best among FBS players since 2016.

Aaron Glenn

The Jets' head coach, who has emphasized that positional value will not be a factor in their draft decisions, stating that they will take the best player available regardless of position.

Darren Mougey

The Jets' general manager, who has also worked under Sean Payton and shares Glenn's philosophy of prioritizing the best player over positional value.

Arvell Reese

A linebacker/edge rusher from Ohio State who some evaluators believe has a higher ceiling as a pass rusher than Bailey, though he is still a work in progress.

Sonny Styles

An off-ball linebacker from Ohio State who is one of the top non-premium position players in the draft.

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What they’re saying

“If you love the player, go get the player. I truly believe in that. If you love the player, go get him, regardless of what everybody thinks, regardless of positional value.”

— Aaron Glenn, Jets Head Coach

“I think I'm just a little bit more explosive [ than other pass rushers ]. I think I have a great first step. I think I have a whole bunch of moves.”

— David Bailey, Texas Tech Edge Rusher

What’s next

The Jets will continue to evaluate their options leading up to the draft, with the decision on whether to select Bailey or another player at No. 2 overall likely coming down to the wire.

The takeaway

This decision highlights the Jets' shift towards a more analytics-driven approach to the draft, prioritizing production and potential over traditional positional value. While Bailey's pass-rushing prowess is undeniable, his run defense concerns could make him a risky pick at No. 2 overall, especially if paired with another edge rusher. The Jets' willingness to buck their usual offensive focus will be a key storyline to watch as the draft approaches.