The New York Jets have narrowed their choice for the No. 2 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft to edge rushers David Bailey and Arvell Reese, according to Ian Rapoport of NFL Network.
Per @RapSheet, the organization has settled on the two defensive standouts as their primary options just one day before the draft kicks off in Pittsburgh. In a significant pre-draft development, the Jets also canceled a scheduled "Top 30" visit with Bailey, the highly productive Texas Tech pass rusher. Sources indicate the team felt they had gathered sufficient information on Bailey following extensive meetings at the NFL Scouting Combine and multiple virtual interviews.
Bailey enters the draft coming off a dominant All-American season in which he led the FBS with 14.5 sacks. He is competing for the No. 2 spot against Ohio State鈥檚 Arvell Reese, a high-ceiling prospect known for his elite athleticism and hybrid versatility. The Jets are widely expected to target a premier pass rusher to pair with 2023 first-round pick Will McDonald after trading Jermaine Johnson to the Tennessee Titans earlier this offseason.
With the Las Vegas Raiders expected to select quarterback Fernando Mendoza with the No. 1 overall pick, the Jets' decision at No. 2 will effectively serve as the start of the draft for the rest of the league. Jets General Manager Darren Mougey is reportedly weighing the immediate production of Bailey against the long-term potential of Reese.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
Sources & Original Reporting
- TWITTER馃憖 https://t.co/cTDAAimS3X
