The No. 2 overall pick in every NFL draft is expected to contribute in a significant capacity right away.
Expectations are even higher for the most recent second overall pick, New York Jets edge rusher David Bailey. The first non-quarterback selected in 2026, he is expected to immediately help turn around a pass rush that ranked 31st with 26 sacks last year.
Under the bright lights of the New York media market, a looming question hangs over Bailey: Is he ready for the pressure?
The Texas Tech product told the media he doesn’t feel a glaring amount of pressure as he enters his rookie campaign.
“I wouldn’t necessarily say I feel pressure. It’s in the back of your mind,” Bailey said. “You know you’re the No. 2 pick. You know there are high expectations from the fans, and also from teammates and the staff and everything. I try not to let that get to me. I try to say nothing has changed, honestly. If I want to be the best, I’ve got certain things I need to do.”
The expectation for Bailey is to be a pass-rushing force right away, while the team hopes his run defense improves to the point where he can be trusted as a three-down player for Gang Green.
Bailey has been a headliner at Jets training camp, reportedly finishing Friday’s practice with three sacks, according to those on the scene in Florham Park.
Saturday’s practice, though, was a slower one for the Texas Tech product, as second-year right tackle Armand Membou seemed to win most of their battles. According to reporters, though, Bailey got into the backfield for what would have been a tackle for loss on Breece Hall.
It continues a string of positive moments against the run for Bailey. That’s encouraging given his well-documented struggles against the run, which were glaring on his college tape. Watching his fundamentals improve in that regard throughout the summer would be a major development for the Jets’ defensive outlook.
