NFL Draft: 3 things to know about new Jets David Bailey, Kenyon Sadiq and Omar Cooper Jr.
Oregon tight end Kenyon Sadiq celebrates a play during the first half of an NCAA football game on Aug. 30, 2025, in Eugene, Ore. Credit: AP/Lydia Ely
DAVID BAILEY
1. A quarterback hunter
Bailey led the FBS in sacks (14 1/2) and pressure rate (21.3 percent) last season and was second in tackles for loss (19 1/2) and pressures (81).
2. He makes his presence felt
Before transferring, Bailey was more of a rotational player at Stanford. His pass-rushing skills were apparent though. In 2024, Bailey was graded Pro Football Focus’ fifth-best edge rusher (90.9), not far behind Abdul Carter (91.4), who the Giants drafted third overall last year.
3. Fast on the field and off
Bailey ran a 4.5 second 40-yard dash at this year’s NFL Combine. As a student, he earned his bachelor’s degree in Science, Technology and Society in three years at Stanford.
KENYON SADIQ
1. He emerged as a junior
After catching 29 passes his first two years, Sadiq set an Oregon tight end record with receptions (51). He caught eight touchdown passes to lead all FBS tight ends and was a Second-Team All-American.
2. He’s big and fast
Sadiq arrived at Oregon weighing 215 pounds and was 241 pounds at the NFL Scouting Combine, where he ran a 4.39-second 40-yard dash – the fastest time ever for a tight end.
3. He’s drawn comparison to all-time greats
Sadiq has wide receiver tendencies, particularly his route running ability and has been compared to Travis Kelce and George Kittle.
OMAR COOPER JR.
1. He’s a quarterback’s best friend
Cooper caught 69 of 91 targets (75.8 percent) last year with just three drops. Targeted 171 times overall, Cooper had 115 receptions and only five dropped passes.
2. He can make tacklers miss
Cooper forced 27 missed tackles last year, the fourth most among FBS receivers. He averaged 7.3 yards after the catch per reception.
3. Cooper was Fernando Mendoza’s favorite target
Cooper led the undefeated National Champions in targets, catches and receiving yards (937). His 13 touchdowns were the second-most among Power 4 receivers behind teammate Elijah Sarrat (15).
Al Iannazzone covers the Jets for Newsday after spending nearly two decades on the NBA beat with Knicks and Nets.
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