ESPN projects David Bailey to lead 2026 rookie class in sacks

The New York Jets look to edge rusher David Bailey for immediate production as the 2026 NFL regular season begins. ESPN projections forecast that Bailey will pace all league rookies with eight sacks during his debut campaign. This estimate ranks him ahead of Tampa Bay Buccaneers defender Rueben Bain Jr. and Los Angeles Chargers EDGE Akheem Mesidor. The Jets selected Bailey third overall to bolster a defensive front that struggled throughout the previous year. He joins veteran pass rushers Kingsley Enagbare and Joseph Ossai on the roster. While these projections remain estimates, the team expects the former Texas Tech standout to play a significant role immediately.

• 10:45 AMYahoo Sports — ESPN projects Jets' David Bailey to pace 2026 NFL rookies in this stat