While the Las Vegas Raiders have made it clear that Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza will be the first name called in the 2026 NFL Draft, the real intrigue starts with the second overall pick. That selection belongs to the New York Jets, and the betting markets have a new favorite for the spot.

Ohio State edge rusher Arvell Reese has surged to become the clear frontrunner, with sportsbooks listing him as a -135 to -150 favorite. This shift comes after the Jets canceled a planned visit with Texas Tech's David Bailey, who was previously favored. Reese, however, did make the trip to the Jets' facility, fueling speculation that New York has shifted its focus.

It's important to note that draft strategy is never that simple. The canceled visit could just as easily mean the Jets are already sold on Bailey and see no need for a final check-in, preserving one of their 30 allotted prospect visits for another player. In the high-stakes chess game of the draft, every move is analyzed, but the true intentions are often hidden until the card is submitted.

Regardless of the order, Reese and Bailey are universally viewed as the top two pass rushers in this class. The Jets' decision at No. 2 will likely dictate whether the team picking third gets a crack at the other elite edge defender. For fans of defensive dominance and game-wrecking pressure, Thursday night can't come soon enough.