Through seven games of the 2026 season, the New York Jets' three first-round draft picks — edge rusher David Bailey, tight end Kenyon Sadiq, and wide receiver Omar Cooper Jr. — have all seen significant playing time, though their early returns present a mixed picture for a team still searching for consistency under head coach Aaron Glenn.
David Bailey: High Effort, Developing Rush Plan
Selected second overall, Bailey has logged 81.3% of defensive snaps and recorded 26 pressures and 5.5 sacks, per TruMedia. His 15.4% pressure rate ranks 11th among players with at least 150 pass-rush snaps, but his average time to sack of 3.62 seconds is below average. Analysts note that some production comes late in the down or when quarterbacks step into pressure. Bailey plays with maximum effort but would benefit from a more refined rush plan rather than relying on post-spin moves and edge swipes. In the run game, he shows power but occasionally loses gap integrity. If the Jets prioritized pass-rush help at No. 2, the pick is defensible given a draft class lacking premier physical specimens.
Omar Cooper Jr.: Explosive After the Catch
Acquired via a trade up from No. 33 overall, Cooper has appeared in only three games but has posted back-to-back 100-yard receiving performances, placing him among the top five rookie receivers in yards. He averages 9.3 yards after the catch per reception — the highest among rookies with at least 10 catches, according to TruMedia — well ahead of the next best, Zachariah Branch at 6.4. Cooper excels against zone coverage but is more limited versus man-to-man. A few big plays have stemmed from coverage confusion and a risky throw by quarterback Geno Smith. His physicality and elusiveness after the catch stand out.
Kenyon Sadiq: Bulldog Blocker and YAC Threat
Sadiq has played all seven games after missing most of training camp with a hernia injury. He is described as a relentless blocker in the run game and a natural pass catcher who attacks zone coverage. His 6.3 yards after the catch per reception ranks third among rookie receivers. Sadiq's energy sometimes leads to unnecessary hurdles or jumps, but his ceiling at tight end appears higher than the complementary starter projections for Bailey and Cooper.
Long-Term Outlook
None of the three selections looks like a mistake. All are contributors with long-term potential. Availability will be key: Cooper has missed four games, while Sadiq has stayed healthy since returning. The Jets also hold three first-round picks in the 2027 draft, providing ammunition to address remaining needs, such as a true No. 1 pass rusher to pair with Bailey.
