Jets’ 2026 NFL draft narrative shifts as Arvell Reese gets trumped by 29-sack LB: Insider

The New York Jets sit in a prime position entering the 2026 NFL draft, owning the No. 2 pick. They’ll have access to nearly the entire draft board, likely aside from Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza, who is widely expected to land with the Las Vegas Raiders at No. 1.

Mock drafts have pointed toward a pass rusher for months, often linking the Jets to Ohio State’s Arvell Reese. However, the narrative may be changing, as recent reports from NFL insiders suggested that New York is leaning toward Texas Tech’s David Bailey.

NFL Network draft analyst Daniel Jeremiah revealed on Monday that he and ESPN’s Peter Schrager have been hearing the same message from league circles.

“We were talking, full disclosure, before we launched here today,” Jeremiah said on “The Schrager Hour.” “We’re kind of hearing the same thing, that as we’re coming down the home stretch here, (the Jets’ No. 2 pick) feels more like Bailey, bird-in-the-hand pick, versus the upside pick with Reese.”

Reese is widely regarded as the best pass rusher in this year’s class. His ability to play inside and outside linebacker with the Buckeyes make him an intriguing fit in a hybrid defense.

Meanwhile, Bailey brings proven production as a full-time edge defender. He recorded 163 tackles (42 tackles for loss), 29 sacks, 10 forced fumbles and four passes defended across 46 games with the Red Raiders. Daniel stressed that New York sees him as a more “polished” option than Reese.

While the Ohio State star’s upside keeps him as the projected favorite at No. 2, the presence of Bailey suggests that the Jets’ decision remains far from settled.

Jets linked to more prospects other than Arvell Reese and David Bailey at No. 2 pick

Arvell Reese and David Bailey have been consistently linked to the New York Jets at No. 2.

However, other prospects have entered the conversation, including Ohio State linebacker Sonny Styles and wide receiver Carnell Tate. Miami defensive end Rueben Bain Jr., Ohio State safety Caleb Downs and Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love have also been floated as potential options.

Styles already had a Top 30 visit with New York. Scouts see him as a versatile defender with more consistency than Reese, according to ESPN’s Rich Cimini on Sunday.

Meanwhile, NFL Network’s Daniel Jeremiah floated Tate as a surprise option at No. 2. He pointed to his polished route running and reliable hands as a perfect fit alongside Garrett Wilson.

The Jets, which also own the No. 16 pick, could go in several directions, making them one of the most interesting teams to watch out for on Day 1.