New NFL Draft Rumors on Jets' Decision at No. 2 as Arvell Reese Considered 'Safer Pick'

The first drama of the 2026 NFL draft will come when the New York Jets make their decision for the No. 2 overall pick, and they reportedly could be choosing between multiple pass-rushers in Texas Tech's David Bailey and Ohio State's Arvell Reese.

While the more experienced and older Bailey, 22, may seem like the safer pick than the 20-year-old Reese who started just one season with the Buckeyes, that reportedly may not be the case.

"In a lot of people's minds, the safer pick is the proven guy in Bailey," draft analyst Todd McShay said (segment starts at 14:45 mark). "Here's my information. It's Arvell Reese at No. 2. And you want to know why from the information I'm getting? It's because Arvell Reese is the safer pick."

McShay explained that Bailey relies on the speed rush and isn't quite as physical of a player. He also struggled at times against the run and is "not that consistent of a hard edge-setting guy."

NFL offensive tackles are more prepared to handle his athleticism than those he faced in college, which means repetitive speed rushes may not be as effective once they have adjusted.

That could limit Bailey's overall impact at the next level.

As for Reese, even if he doesn't live up to expectations, he could still be a versatile and solid off-ball linebacker who rushes the passer at times. And he brings a higher ceiling, which is important when the biggest thing for the Jets is not missing with such a high pick.

Arvell Reese highlights

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This comes after Jonathan Jones of CBS Sports reported most of the sources he talked to believed the Jets would take Bailey over Reese because he is a more proven and pro-ready prospect.

"Bailey is the surest one but Arvell is gonna be a star," one defensive coordinator told Jones. "Arvell needs some time and the Jets need someone right now."

It seems to be a matter of perspective, and the fact the Jets canceled a visit with Bailey only adds another layer to the discussion. On the surface, that may seem like they aren't as interested as him.

However, they also may know exactly what they'd be getting in the Texas Tech star and want to use their visits on prospects they aren't as sure about as the process unfolds.

B/R's NFL Scouting Department projected New York to take Reese in its most recent mock draft with Bailey going No. 3 overall to the Arizona Cardinals. It also ranked Reese as the fourth-best player in the draft and Bailey as the seventh-best one in its latest big board of prospects.

While a decision still needs to be made, the Jets reported interest in pass-rushers comes as no surprise.

They were an ugly 31st in the league in points allowed last season. They also finished 31st in the league in sacks.

The defense is a significant problem, and improving that pass rush would have a multiplier effect because it would also help a secondary that wouldn't have to defend receivers as long when quarterbacks drop back to throw.

Whether it is Reese or Bailey, the Jets will be better positioned to attack quarterbacks in 2026.