The issue of selecting Bailey at 3 is complicated by the question of which Bailey is a team drafting. I’ll get back to this issue when considering deficiencies.
There are numerous aspects of his game to endorse. He has an elite first step, though it should be noted he gets a little antsy and picked up several offside penalties. He’s very agile and has exceptional lateral quickness. He made the “Freaks List” with his uncommon athleticism. Bailey has an above average motor and always plays until the whistle. When rushing the passer he has that late burst and strong hands to assure the sack. He seldom misses.
He uses those same characteristics plus a wide array of moves to readily shed would be blockers. He displays good bends which when coupled with his speed allows his to get outside many OTs. His strong hands are very active permitting him to cause fumbles and bat down passes. His athleticism and balance enable him to be effective in pass coverage and executing stunts. These traits also make it possible for him to play standing up or with his hand on the ground.
So what’s wrong with him? Well if you look at mock drafts from 45 days ago, his highest position is typically mid first round. Several have him early second round. Some went so far as to classify him as a third down specialist. They almost universally criticize his ability to set the edge. So what changed? He did! He does not play with a mean disposition. He’s often seen as passive. However, in the latter part of the season his attitude seemed to change. He aggressively attacked ball carriers and pulling blockers becoming far more effective at controlling the edge. He’s still a little light but his frame seems to indicate he could add muscle without sacrificing much speed and quickness. He also needs to improve his understanding of leverage. With his athleticism he should be at least adequate in this aspect, though it may take a little time.
There is another concern. He tends to over pursue. When targeting the QB this allows gaps through which a quick QB can escape, often for significant yardage. He does the same approaching ball carriers. This allows them to cut inside him and proceed down the field. Maturity often corrects this flaw, though not all players become more disciplined.
Overall he’s a serious consideration for the third pick. At the least the Cards would get a great rusher on passing downs.
There are numerous aspects of his game to endorse. He has an elite first step, though it should be noted he gets a little antsy and picked up several offside penalties. He’s very agile and has exceptional lateral quickness. He made the “Freaks List” with his uncommon athleticism. Bailey has an above average motor and always plays until the whistle. When rushing the passer he has that late burst and strong hands to assure the sack. He seldom misses.
He uses those same characteristics plus a wide array of moves to readily shed would be blockers. He displays good bends which when coupled with his speed allows his to get outside many OTs. His strong hands are very active permitting him to cause fumbles and bat down passes. His athleticism and balance enable him to be effective in pass coverage and executing stunts. These traits also make it possible for him to play standing up or with his hand on the ground.
So what’s wrong with him? Well if you look at mock drafts from 45 days ago, his highest position is typically mid first round. Several have him early second round. Some went so far as to classify him as a third down specialist. They almost universally criticize his ability to set the edge. So what changed? He did! He does not play with a mean disposition. He’s often seen as passive. However, in the latter part of the season his attitude seemed to change. He aggressively attacked ball carriers and pulling blockers becoming far more effective at controlling the edge. He’s still a little light but his frame seems to indicate he could add muscle without sacrificing much speed and quickness. He also needs to improve his understanding of leverage. With his athleticism he should be at least adequate in this aspect, though it may take a little time.
There is another concern. He tends to over pursue. When targeting the QB this allows gaps through which a quick QB can escape, often for significant yardage. He does the same approaching ball carriers. This allows them to cut inside him and proceed down the field. Maturity often corrects this flaw, though not all players become more disciplined.
Overall he’s a serious consideration for the third pick. At the least the Cards would get a great rusher on passing downs.
