Jason Burgos
A New York Jets insider explained this week the unexpected reason why the team prefers to use the No. 2 overall pick in the NFL Draft on David Bailey instead of Arvell Reese.
After another disappointing season in 2025, the Jets are in a good position heading into next week’s draft. While they don’t have the No. 1 overall pick in the event, they might as well because the Las Vegas Raiders are locked in to take quarterback Fernando Mendoza with the top pick in Round 1. It allows the Jets to pick the most talent-rich player available this year.
There has been a ton of speculation about who that player will be. However, the majority of mock drafts and expert opinions point to the Jets selecting either Texas Tech pass rusher David Bailey or his Ohio State counterpart Arvell Reese. The reason many are split on them is a belief that while Bailey is better right now, Reese has far more upside.
Well, it seems the Jets’ decision makers may not be thinking long-term and want to get better immediately after a three-win season.
New York Jets want David Bailey because he can make a quicker impact?
During a new appearance on the Gang’s All Here podcast, Jet insider Brian Costello claimed that many around the NFL are confident Bailey will be the choice for two reasons. First, Glenn is feeling the pressure of losing his job and needs a player who can be very good now, not later. The second is because Bailey is a “plug-and-play” talent. On the other hand, it’s unclear where Reese will play in the NFL as either an EDGE or outside linebacker.
Costello admits it would be a poor decision by Glenn and management to draft a player based on what they can do for them now instead of long-term. However, it is the opinion of sources around the NFL on how the Jets’ brain trust will approach the event.
Jets fans will find out which way the team goes next week during Day 1 of the 2026 NFL Draft.
