David Bailey's 40-Yard Dash Turns Heads at Jets Camp
David Bailey is making waves in the lead-up to the 2026 NFL Draft, and for good reason. After the New York Jets traded Jermaine Johnson to the Tennessee Titans, all eyes are on GM Darren Mougey as he eyes the No. 2 overall pick. The spotlight is firmly on three elite pass rushers: Ohio State's Arvell Reese, Miami's Rueben Bain Jr., and Texas Tech's David Bailey.
Bailey's stock has been on the rise, thanks to his impressive athletic prowess as an outside speed rusher. His performance at the 2026 NFL Combine was nothing short of spectacular, clocking an unofficial 4.51 in the 40-yard dash and nearly matching it with a 4.54 on his second attempt. Coupled with a broad jump approaching 11 feet, Bailey's combine performance sent a clear message to the Jets' decision-makers.
While Arvell Reese is touted as a potential All-Pro, Bailey's athleticism puts him right in the mix. His explosive first steps and blazing speed make him a nightmare for opposing tackles.
Bailey, who transitioned from Stanford to Texas Tech, was a standout on the Red Raiders defense, racking up 14.5 sacks last season. Among the trio of top pass rushers, Bailey arguably boasts the highest ceiling as a pure pass rusher.
Weighing in at just over 250 pounds, Bailey sits between Reese's 241 pounds and Bain's 262. Bain's weight, notably less than Miami's listed 275, along with concerns about his arm length, could give Bailey the edge in evaluations.
The Jets do have a potential concern with Bailey's run defense, especially considering pairing him with Will McDonald, known for his struggles against the run. However, Bailey's potential as a pass rusher is undeniable.
While the decision on the No. 2 pick is still up in the air, Bailey's speed and skill set ensure he's a strong contender alongside Reese as an elite edge rusher prospect.