The Jets announced a four-year agreement with first-round edge defender David Bailey, the second overall pick in the draft. Bailey’s pact is worth approximately $54.68MM.
It was clear throughout the pre-draft process that the Raiders would select former Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza first overall. There was less certainty surrounding the Jets’ top choice, as reports went back and forth on whether they would take Bailey or ex-Ohio State linebacker/edge defender Arvell Reese. Looking for an immediate pass-rushing upgrade, the Jets landed on Bailey, a former Stanford and Texas Tech standout.
The 6-foot-3, 254-pound Bailey played three years at Stanford, where he notched 14.5 sacks in 32 games. After transferring to Texas Tech for his senior season last year, his production skyrocketed. Bailey piled up a nation-leading 14.5 sacks in 14 games, and he finished second in pressures (81) and tackles for loss (19.5). He earned unanimous All-America honors and the Big 12 Defensive Lineman of the Year Award for his efforts.
The Jets, who finished last in the NFL in pressure rate and 31st in sacks in 2025, have made it a point to boost an anemic pass rush this offseason. Before using a premium pick on Bailey, they signed Joseph Ossai and Kingsley Enagbare in free agency. Ossai and Enagbare will complement the Jets’ top edge rushers, Bailey and 2023 first-rounder Will McDonald.
With Bailey under wraps, the Jets have already signed all three of their first-round picks. They previously reached deals with tight end Kenyon Sadiq (16th overall) and wide receiver Omar Cooper Jr. (30th). Fourth-round defensive tackle Darrell Jackson is the only member of their eight-player draft class who has not signed yet.
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