Why Jets drafted David Bailey over Arvell Reese with No. 2 pick in 2026 NFL Draft originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Since it was no secret that the Las Vegas Raiders were going to pick Fernando Mendoza with the first overall pick, the draft really started with the New York Jets at pick No. 2.

For the majority of the draft process, NFL insiders reported that the Jets were deciding between Ohio State linebacker Arvell Reese and Texas Tech edge rusher David Bailey. In the end, New York went with Bailey over Reese with its first pick in the first round this year.

While this year's class is considered weaker than usual at the top, the Jets hope that Bailey becomes a cornerstone piece for years to come as they try to rebuild their team. When New York takes the field in Week 1 of the 2026 season, Baileywill immediately be one of the most important players on the field.

Here's why the Jets chose Bailey second overall.

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Quite simply, the Jets took Bailey because he is considered the best pass rusher in the draft. Bailey produced 14.5 sacks in 2025 to lead the Big 12, and he should be an instant impact player from day one in the NFL.

New York will be able to plug Bailey into its defense, with the rookie becoming the team’s best defensive playmaker immediately. The Jets are banking on Bailey’s pass-rush ability translating quickly to the NFL, helping the defense take a step forward in 2026.

While Bailey doesn’t offer much in the run game, the Jets hope he can develop enough in that area to become a true three-down player. By selecting Bailey over Reese and Bain, New York is prioritizing pass-rush ability over a more well-rounded skill set.

Bailey has the most experience of the three, having played four years in college after starting at Stanford and transferring to Texas Tech last year. While the Jets aren’t close to contending, they needed experienced playmakers on defense, so they chose Bailey.

Here's how Arvell Reese, David Bailey and Rueben Bain all performed in 2025.

Reese was the better all-around player, leading the three in tackles, while Bailey's ability to get to the quarterback was the best attribute of the three. Bain was a star in Miami's run to the National Championship, but the Jets never seemed to consider him for the second pick.