The New York Jets selected Bailey with the No. 2 overall pick in the first round of the draft on Thursday, making him the second-highest draft pick in Texas Tech history.

The only Texas Tech player to have been selected higher was Dave Parks, the No. 1 overall pick in the 1964 draft by the San Francisco 49ers. 

Bailey is the second first-round pick under head coach Joey McGuire, joining Tyree Wilson, who the Raiders selected seventh overall 2023.

Bailey is the first player drafted from the 2025 Texas Tech defense that was dominant the entire season and led the Red Raiders to their first Big 12 title and College Football Playoff appearance.

After being one of the most sought-after defensive players in the draft, Bailey will head to New York to begin his NFL career and try to translate the success he had at Texas Tech to the next level.