Jets Reportedly Leaning Toward Arvell Reese With Second Overall Pick

Ohio State edge rusher now favored over Texas Tech's David Bailey as draft night approaches

Apr. 18, 2026 at 4:38pm

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting the intense competition and high-stakes decision facing the New York Jets as they choose between two top edge rushers for the second overall pick in the upcoming NFL Draft.The Jets' pivotal decision between two top edge rushers will have ripple effects throughout the 2026 NFL Draft.Columbus Today

The New York Jets, who own the second overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, are reportedly leaning towards selecting Ohio State edge rusher Arvell Reese over Texas Tech's David Bailey. Multiple sportsbooks now list Reese as the favorite to be taken second overall, with his odds ranging from -135 to -150, while Bailey's odds have drifted to +100 to +110.

Why it matters

The Jets are in need of pass rush help after a disappointing defensive season, and the decision between Reese and Bailey represents a crucial choice for the franchise with their premium draft capital. Reese and Bailey are considered the top two edge rushers in the draft class, so whichever player is passed over at No. 2 will likely be selected quickly by another team in need of defensive talent.

The details

The Jets recently canceled a planned visit with Bailey, while Reese did visit the team facility for a meeting. This scheduling move sparked intense speculation and a significant shift in betting markets. However, teams often use such tactics as smokescreens during the draft evaluation process. The Jets might have scratched Bailey's visit because the decision has already been made internally, with no need for another interview. Both Reese and Bailey dominated at the collegiate level, with Reese showing explosive burst off the edge for Ohio State and Bailey building his reputation in Lubbock with relentless motor and consistent production.

  • The Jets own the second overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, which will take place on Thursday, April 24, 2026.
  • Reese visited the Jets facility for a meeting earlier this month.
  • The Jets canceled a planned visit with Bailey earlier this month.

The players

Arvell Reese

An edge rusher from Ohio State University who is now the favorite to be selected second overall by the New York Jets in the 2026 NFL Draft.

David Bailey

An edge rusher from Texas Tech University who was previously the favorite to be selected second overall by the New York Jets, but has seen his odds drift as Reese has emerged as the favorite.

Fernando Mendoza

A quarterback from Indiana University who is expected to be selected first overall by the Las Vegas Raiders in the 2026 NFL Draft.

New York Jets

The NFL team that owns the second overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft and is deciding between Arvell Reese and David Bailey.

Cleveland Browns

An NFL team that could potentially select the edge rusher that is passed over by the Jets at the second overall pick.

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What’s next

The Jets will make their selection with the second overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft on Thursday, April 24, 2026.

The takeaway

This decision by the Jets represents a crucial choice for the franchise as they look to address their pass rush needs. The selection of either Reese or Bailey could have significant implications for the rest of the draft, as the player passed over at No. 2 will likely be snatched up quickly by another team in need of defensive talent.