He is coming off a big season and was viewed as more ready to contribute right away than Ohio State edge defender/linebacker Arvell Reese, who was considered to be the other top option for that pick. The Jets came into the draft with four picks in the top 44. The biggest pick was second overall, and it was a tough call for the team after a few quarterback prospects decided to return to college for the 2026 season.

But the choice mostly came down to Reese or Bailey. The Jets, who set an NFL record by not recording an interception all last season, needed some help for the defense. They’re mostly starting over after trading cornerback Sauce Gardner and defensive tackle Quinnen Williams last season.

Bailey, who had 14.5 sacks last season, will be expected to make an immediate impact. Glenn, who had a bad first season as Jets coach and enters the 2026 season on the hot seat, hope that Bailey helps lead a turnaround this season. The Jets chose Bailey over Reese, and that will be debated for years to come as their careers play out. The Jets hope Bailey is a foundation for the defense for many years to come, with some other help coming with three more picks in the first two rounds.