The Jets needed a pass rusher heading into this year’s NFL Draft, and the whole league knew it. David Bailey and Arvell Reese were the consensus top options, with everyone speculating who Gang Green would snatch up. In the end, it was Bailey going second overall, leaving Reese to fall a few spots later to the in-state rival Giants at the fifth pick.
The #2 Pick That Launched a Rivalry
Aaron Glenn, the Jets’ head coach, just confirmed what everyone was thinking about that crucial draft decision. Picking between Bailey and Reese was the biggest debate, hands down. Both guys were widely considered the best pass rushers in their class. Glenn and the Jets went with Bailey, and Reese landed with the Giants. Talk about instantly heating up a rivalry, right?
Glenn Sticks to His Guns on Bailey
So far, both rookies are looking like absolute studs. We’ve seen them dominate in early performances, proving why they were so highly touted. With them set to face off this Friday, Glenn was asked about the decision after Monday’s practice. He didn’t blink. “We have our process,” he explained. “Those are two really good players and they are going to be really good players in this league, we want to make sure we made the best decision for us, and we felt Bailey was the best decision.” He even gave Reese props, calling him “a special, special player” who’ll “do special things in this league,” but reiterated, “we like the direction that we went and we think that Bailey is going to be a good player for us.”
This Friday night isn’t just another game. It’s Bailey vs. Reese, the #2 pick against the #5, head-to-head for the first time. Jets and Giants fans are in for a show, and we’re all watching to see who makes the bigger statement early in their careers. You can bet this won’t be the last time these two go at it.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
Leave a Reply