David Bailey

David Bailey is a pass rusher who entered the NFL after four college seasons, recognized as a top edge rusher in his draft class. The New York Jets selected Bailey, a Texas Tech edge rusher, with the No. 2 overall pick of the NFL Draft in Pittsburgh, making him the highest defensive player selected by the Jets since 1967.

Bailey's college football career included notable development and production. A former four-star recruit from Mater Dei High School, where he earned all-state honors as a junior, Bailey committed to Stanford and became a starter as a true freshman. He later served as a spot starter in subsequent seasons. During his sophomore year, Bailey led his team in tackles for loss and sacks, including a three-sack performance against Hawaii. His junior season included seven sacks, 31 tackles, and five forced fumbles, ranking fourth nationally. Bailey graduated from Stanford University with a bachelor's degree in science, technology and society before transferring to Texas Tech for his senior season.

In his season with the Texas Tech Red Raiders, Bailey tied for the FBS lead with 14.5 sacks and ranked second with 19 tackles for loss. He finished as the nation's highest-graded defensive player by Pro Football Focus, earning a 93.3 overall grade. Bailey was named Big 12 Newcomer of the Year and Defensive Lineman of the Year by conference coaches, becoming the first Red Raider to receive the Defensive Lineman of the Year honor. He also earned unanimous All-American honors.

At the NFL Scouting Combine, Bailey ran the 40-yard dash in 4.50 seconds, the second-fastest time among defensive ends and edge rushers. He is recognized for his ability to win one-on-one matchups and disrupt plays in the backfield. With the Jets, Bailey joins fellow edge rusher Will McDonald IV, strengthening New York's defensive front. Bailey's athleticism and pass-rushing skills position him as a key contributor in the NFL.