David Bailey, LB/EDGE, Stanford
Size:
Height: 6’2” (v) | Weight: 240 lbs (v)
Accomplishments:
Chuck Bednarik Award Watch List (2023)
“David Bailey is a hybrid edge defender whose athleticism and ability to align at multiple spots showcase an intriguing developmental prospect.”
Strengths:
Athletic
Versatile
Projection
Concerns:
Discipline vs. zone reads
Pass-rush repertoire
Stack/shed to live at LB
Film Analysis:
David Bailey is a hybrid edge defender whose athleticism and ability to align at multiple spots showcase an intriguing developmental prospect. He’s aligned primarily in a two-point stance outside the offensive tackle. The majority of Bailey’s snaps have come along the line of scrimmage, but he also has a healthy workload in space, specifically in the slot. While he does not project as a primary fringe defender at the next level, his ability to shift and align all over the front seven showcases a versatile athlete. However, it remains to be seen where he will find his true niche as a football player, which will ultimately see his profile differ from team to team considering needs.
Against the run, Bailey has room to grow in his ability to ID and stack/shed opposing blockers. Bailey has an impressive frame with obvious strength and movement ability, but his impact remains minimal against runs both to and away from him. Teams consistently attacked Bailey’s side in zone-read looks, leaving him unblocked to force him into decisions. Improved patience will assist in countering specific concepts up front. Uses his extension well but is not a player who looks to engage and hunt down ball-carriers. Bailey is more experienced against the run when attacking from depth, where he has a few extra split seconds to react and pursue. Runs well in the open field.
As a pass rusher, Bailey is a project at this point in his evaluation. Pressures primarily come from his ability to turn the corner as an athlete, and refining his game technically will boost his profile. Has flashes of consistent success, but his ability to fine-tune the nuances in his game at 5-tech will assist in finalizing his unique profile.
Bailey projects immediately as a second-level defender whose primary workload comes at linebacker. More snaps are needed for him to become increasingly comfortable, but his size and movement ability in space showcase that of a hybrid athlete who can add depth at the LB position, only to drift down and rush the passer on third down.
Concerns remain about his pass-rush repertoire and overall raw skill set. Bailey cannot be classified as a pure sack artist at this point, and his role for Stanford in 2024 will remain key in finalizing his player profile.
Overall, Bailey is a prospect whose evaluation and projection will differ from team to team as the months wear on. However, as many questions as there are, he touts an intriguing skill set at multiple depths that fits the trends of the modern game. With the correct development, he has the chance to carve out a comfortable role at the next level.
Prospect Projection: Day 3 — Scheme Specific Contributor
Written By: Ryan Fowler
Exposures: Colorado (2023), USC (2023), California (2023)
