PITTSBURGH — Onlookers at Friday night’s game witnessed an electrifying moment courtesy of David Bailey, echoing what the Jets have anticipated all summer.
Early in the game, during the Steelers’ second possession, Jets newcomer David Bailey demonstrated his prowess. He expertly slipped past Steelers tackle Broderick Jones and brought down quarterback Will Howard, causing an 11-yard loss on a crucial third down.
“To me, it felt incredible,” Bailey shared with The Post following the Jets’ 17-0 triumph over the Steelers in the preseason. “It was a huge weight off my shoulders. Knowing my fellow line players and the coverage did their roles impeccably made it possible for me to capitalize on the opportunity.”
This was the kind of impactful performance the Jets had been eagerly awaiting from Bailey, especially after his understated showing in the game against the Buccaneers during the team’s preseason debut.
Selected as the No. 2 overall draft pick in April, the former Texas Tech sensation Bailey has been meeting expectations throughout training camp. Known for unsettling his own team’s offensive line, he also left a mark during joint practices with Tampa Bay. With rising hopes surrounding him, Bailey demonstrated yet again on Friday why he is one to watch this season.
“It was good to see that,” Jets head coach Aaron Glenn said. “Obviously, we know what he can do as far as a pass rusher. I already see in my head that there’s a couple of things that he has to improve on that showed up in the game and he will.”
In all, Bailey played 12 snaps and had two quarterback pressures and the one sack. It continues a strong summer for Bailey.
“I feel like camp has been pretty good,” Bailey said. “I’ve been trying to soak in everything while just trying to get better. It’s been a great experience.”
The Jets interception drought is not officially over but they at least showed promise of it ending sometime soon.
They came up with two interceptions of Steelers QB Will Howard on Friday night. Safety Andre Cisco secured the first pick, ending a Steelers drive at the Jets’ 14-yard line. CB Sam Womack picked off Howard just before halftime to give the Jets another one.
The Jets set an NFL record in 2025 with zero interceptions, an incredible mark. Jets defenders repeatedly have said that they are focused on ending that streak.
“We were celebrating for our guys,” cornerback Brandon Stephens said. “It was good to see. We went a whole year without seeing it. Just to get that feeling back of getting an interception, two of them, it was big time.”
The kicking competition continues.
Cade York attempted a 59-yard field goal at the end of the first half and missed wide right.
Jason Sanders made a 39-yard field goal in the fourth quarter to give the Jets a 10-0 lead.
NT T’Vondre Sweat and Edge Joseph Ossai did not play in the game after starting practice this week. The Jets are being cautious and bringing them along slowly. … TE Chase Curtis left the game with a knee injury. … DE Nate Lynn, who signed with the Jets this week, had two sacks. … LB Kiko Mauigoa did not play because of a sore hamstring.