March 15, 2026, 8:21 a.m. ET

David Bailey is considered a premier, speed rusher who would provide the explosive presence opposite Aidan Hutchinson that the Lions currently need. His versatility as an EDGE defender allows him to play as a stand-up rusher or with his hand in the dirt. Bailey is projected to go high in the 1st round which means the Lions would need to hope for a slide or do a trade up.

Here is the excerpt of my medical report on Bailey.

(Ages in parentheses are at start of 2026 season and are factored into the concern level. Injury info and ages based on available public information are unverified and subject to update. Games played data courtesy of sports-reference.com.)

David Bailey, EDGE (23) – Texas Tech

Projected early round 1. #4 on Daniel Jeremiah board Jan 27

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Concern level 1/10

2025: 14/14 games.2024: 12/12 games.2023: 10/12 games.2022: 10/12 games.High school: Fractured wrist

Bailey had a fractured wrist in high school which isn’t a concern at this point. Ideally, he would be 1-2 years younger for a 1st round pick, but overall has a very low concern level.

In 2025, he had the second most sacks (13.5) in FBS. His career totals include 42 TFL and 29 sacks.

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