The wait is finally over for Jets fans. David Bailey, the team’s No. 2 overall pick, recorded his first preseason sack against the Steelers on Friday night. That play was proof the massive investment made in April is paying off immediately. The rookie pass rusher blew past tackle Broderick Jones and took down quarterback Will Howard for a massive 11-yard loss. That single play showed exactly what New York has been hoping to see all summer.
A Relieved Rookie Finally Breaks Through
Bayley admitted he felt a huge weight lift off his shoulders after the play. He told The New York Post that the moment felt amazing after a quiet debut against Tampa Bay. “It was a sense of relief,” Bailey said. “My interior line and the coverage both performed their duties well, letting me capitalize, which felt great.” The Texas Tech star had been terrorizing the offensive line in camp, but games are different. Now he has the real-life evidence to back up the hype. He played 12 snaps total, recording two pressures alongside the sack.
Coach Glenn Sees the Future
Head coach Aaron Glenn was happy with the result, though he saw the raw talent on display and knows more work is needed. “It was good to see that,” Glenn said. “As a pass rusher, his capabilities are clearly understood by us. I have already visualized several areas where he must improve, as evidenced by the game, and he will address them.” This is the mark of a smart coach. He praises the success while pointing out the flaws that will make Bailey even better. The rookie agrees with this approach. “I feel like camp has been pretty good,” Bailey said. “I have been absorbing everything while focusing on my own improvement. It’s been a great experience.”
The Defense Wakes Up Too
The sack was just one part of a massive defensive night. The Jets ended a record-breaking interception drought by picking off Will Howard twice. Safety Andre Cisco and cornerback Sam Womack both grabbed picks to turn the tide. Cornerback Brandon Stephens noted how special it felt to get back on that winning side. “We were celebrating for our guys,” Stephens said. “It was good to see. We went a whole year without seeing it.” Regaining the sensation of securing an interception, specifically two of them, proved to be a major moment. In 2025, the team established an NFL record by recording zero interceptions. They finally broke that streak in style. With Bailey leading the rush and the secondary waking up, the Jets look like a team that can actually stop people this year. The preseason is over, but the real test begins now.
