FLORHAM PARK, N.J. – The Jets chose the more proven edge rusher with the better floor than the one with the higher ceiling.

After much conjecture and debate, the Jets took Texas Tech senior David Bailey with the second overall pick in Thursday’s NFL Draft. Bailey led the FBS with 14 1/2 sacks and was a First-Team All-American in his only season at Texas Tech.

The Jets, who also have the No. 16 pick in the first round, had everyone guessing whether they would take Bailey or versatile Ohio State defender Arvell Reese with the No. 2 pick.

Bailey is the more polished player and the best pure pass rusher in this draft. Reese, a hybrid linebacker for the Buckeyes, has more position flexibility and upside.

Either one of them could help the Jets. But Bailey, 22, is considered more ready than the 20-year-old Reese to step in and have an immediate impact. That could have factored into their decision. The Jets, and especially Aaron Glenn for his job security, need to put a better product on the field and be more competitive.

The Jets went 3-14 last season and were a major disappointment on defense. They allowed the second-most points in the NFL (29.6 per game), finished with the second fewest sacks (26) and the least pressures (87).

The 6-foot-4, 251-pound Bailey can help the Jets increase those numbers.

A transfer from Stanford, Bailey had a big impact in his only season at Texas Tech, helping the Red Raiders win the Big 12 Conference championship for the first time. He registered 19.5 tackles for loss, 81 pressures and three forced fumbles – all on strip sacks.

Glenn will be calling the defense this year and plans to play multiple fronts. Bailey is a good fit playing on the opposite side of Will McDonald whether the Jets are in a 3-4 or 4-3 front. The two players use their speed and athleticism to try and disrupt the passer.