David Bailey just got an unexpected gift before Jets training camp

New York Jets rookie edge rusher David Bailey has already accomplished something rarely seen in the New York football market. 

Bailey, unlike many of his Jets teammates, received both praise and optimism from a national media outlet. 

Insert your favorite “shocked” reaction GIF. 

Bleacher Report’s Alex Kay sounds all-in on Bailey, the No. 2 pick and an expected Day 1 starter. 

“Bailey has a ridiculous first step, hulking power and a motor that simply doesn’t quit,” Kay wrote. “He mixes explosiveness with fluid athleticism to create one of the more unique pass-rushing prospects to hit the NFL in some time.”

Kay predicted that Bailey would record seven sacks and two forced fumbles. 

David Bailey is earning high praise ahead of training camp

Kay must not have gotten the memo that all Jets players are subject to mockery and low expectations. 

The national media has been incredibly harsh on both the Giants and Jets throughout the offseason. 

We’ve seen redemption tours for Robert Saleh and Matt Nagy, forced speculation about Garrett Wilson, and even instances of analysts lying via inaccurate statistics. 

Earlier this week, we even saw CBS Sports suggest that Wilson isn’t among the NFL’s top 13 receivers, but Drake London and the injured Malik Nabers are. 

You’ll understand, then, why it’s so refreshing to see someone offer optimism via objectivity. 

A seven-sack, two-fumble season would thrill the Jets, especially if Bailey forces a quarterback into ending the Jets’ interception drought. 

Whatever your expectations for Bailey are, the Jets need him to play competently and find his footing relatively early. 

Barring a plethora of injuries, the Jets are nowhere close to the Bills or Patriots. An AFC East title run feels extremely unlikely, even after the Bills’ coaching change. 

But the Jets have at least positioned themselves to finally take that next step forward, largely thanks to the influx of young talent. 

Bailey, tight end Kenyon Sadiq, and receiver Omar Cooper Jr. all arrived via the first round. The three, along with cornerback and second-round pick D’Angelo Ponds, figure to start or play significant roles come Week 1. 

And if Bailey even comes close to the goals that Kay just set, the Jets might feel much better about their 2027 chances.

Look what some positivity can do! 

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