Jets 2026 Position Breakdown: How much of an impact can rookie EDGE David Bailey make?

With the 2026 season underway, the New York Jets have reshaped their roster depth at edge rusher, but the question is whether the group can drive a playoff push. The proposed 2026 depth chart lists Will McDonald and Joseph Ossai as starters, with Kingsley Enagbare and rookie David Bailey as backups. Bailey was drafted No. 2 overall in April, while Ossai and Enagbare joined via free agency. In 2025, McDonald recorded 30 tackles and eight sacks over 15 games and ranked 41st of 130 qualifying edges by pass-rush grade per PFF. Bailey, the first defensive player taken in the April draft, led college football with 14.5 sacks and generated high pressure rates. The analysis notes the duo could be effective in passing situations but may be less dominant versus the run. It also highlights McDonald’s need for consistency after eight sacks in 2025.