Nfl draft 2026: reese or bailey for jets at pick 2? arizona's love in mix for 3rd overall
The NFL Draft 2026 is just hours away, and the rumor mill has been churning with all sorts of possibilities.
Position battles dominate early discussions
With the Raiders kicking things off at pick number one with Fernando Mendoza, the real intrigue begins with the Jets at pick two. The prevailing debate centers around whether the team will opt for Arvell Reese, the pass-rushing linebacker, or David Bailey, the edge rush specialist.
Insiders have flip-flopped on their predictions in recent weeks, with local sources sticking with Reese, while national pundits lean towards Bailey. One common thread is that both players offer immediate impact, with Reese being seen as the more versatile hybrid edge linebacker who requires less immediate development, while Bailey is viewed as a sure-fire pick due to his defined role as a speed pass rusher with clear limitations against the run.
However, the Jets' draft dynamics could be influenced by the team's overall rebuild timeline, with some arguing they lack the luxury to invest in a developing player like Reese. Conversely, Bailey's instant-impact ability could be too enticing for a team looking to bolster its pass rush immediately.
Arizona's plans for pick 3 remain unclear
Meanwhile, the Cardinals at pick three have been the subject of intense speculation. While a run on tackles could see prospects like Francis Mauigoa and Spencer Fano come off the board, some insiders believe Arizona is considering a surprise pick in running back Jeremiyah Love, who could be a top talent but also a significant risk given his team's current roster construction and lack of a proven quarterback.
Love's potential selection could be driven by team owner Michael Bidwill's apparent enthusiasm for the prospect, which has gained traction among influential draft analysts like Peter Schrager, Albert Breer, Adam Schefter, and Lance Zierlein.
Top 10 predictions take shape
Looking ahead to the top 10 picks, Jordyn Tyson's meteoric rise has seen him climb the boards, with the Giants, Saints, and Chiefs all reportedly intrigued by the speedy receiver. However, concerns over his injury history and potential long-term durability could keep him out of the top 5, with the Rams potentially making a play for him at pick 13.
For the Commanders at pick 7, Tate may be the first receiver off the board, with some predicting a small run on wideouts in the early stages of the draft.
Tackles and cornerbacks face uncertainty
Among the early round prospects, the tackle position is particularly deep and unpredictable, with seven prospects expected to go in the first round. However, the quality drops off significantly after the first seven, leaving teams like the Lions, Steelers, Eagles, Browns, Bears, Texans, Dolphins, and Patriots potentially scrambling for talent after the initial wave.
In the cornerback department, Jermod McCoy's health concerns and Rueben Bain's arm length issues could see both players slide further down the boards than initially anticipated, with McCoy possibly falling into the second round.