The New York Jets are heading into the 2026 NFL Draft with the second overall pick and will have their choice of any player not named Fernando Mendoza.
Of their many options, Ohio State's Arvell Reese and Texas Tech's David Bailey have emerged as the two most likely prospects for the Jets with this pick.
According to ESPN insider Matt Miller, there seems to be one player emerging as the frontrunner in the Reese vs. Bailey race for No. 2 overall.
Jets' favorite at No. 2 between Reese and Bailey revealed
"As of today, it sounds like Bailey has more fans in the building," Miller writes. "The Jets understand that an impact player is needed right now for coach Aaron Glenn's defense. Bailey's 14.5 sacks in 2025 and speed around the edge make for an ideal fit for a team moving to more of a 3-4 defense."
This reporting from Miller is very interesting. While Reese has been continuously linked to the Jets this offseason, and seemingly was a lock at times for the Jets' pick, Bailey looks to have overtaken the lead for the second pick.
It makes a ton of sense, as Bailey is the safer pick in the sense that he's been much more productive off the edge in his collegiate career.
More: Jets ideal pick at No. 2 overall is Arvell Reese out of Ohio State
Reese, on the other hand, has been an off-ball linebacker, and while he's been very good, including when he got some run at the edge, his transition to the edge rusher spot is a big risk.
Comparing the two, Glenn and the Jets going with Bailey over Reese would not be a surprise whatsoever.
Bailey is by far more pro-ready off the edge than Reese, is a great scheme fit, and was more productive in his final college season as well, with his 14.5 sack season.
At the second overall pick, the Jets seem likely to go for one of Bailey or Reese, with the final selection still up in the air. But, according to Miller's report, it seems as if Bailey is trending towards being the pick No. 2 overall.
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