NFL9 Nov 20262 minute read

Will McDonald IV Requests Trade From New York Jets

New York Jets pass rusher Will McDonald IV has requested a trade after seeing his playing time shrink.

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McDonald Wants Out of New York

New York Jets pass rusher Will McDonald IV has asked the team for a trade. The 2023 first round draft pick wants a move after seeing his role diminish this season. McDonald approached the coaching staff weeks ago to ask for more playing time, but no changes were made.

He has now officially informed the franchise that he wants out. The trade deadline is set for 4 p.m. ET on Tuesday. The Jets are not actively shopping him right now.

McDonald is not the only player looking for a fresh start. Cornerback Nahshon Wright has not played a single defensive snap this season. He is also open to a trade and has communicated that to the team.

A Changing Role Under New Coaching

McDonald was selected 16th overall by the previous front office. He registered 10.5 sacks in 2024. A new coaching staff arrived in 2025, led by head coach Aaron Glenn. Glenn suggested in August 2025 that the previous staff did not coach McDonald properly.

While McDonald started for Glenn in 2025, the team later altered its defensive system to a 3 4 scheme. The Jets also added edge rushers David Bailey, Joseph Ossai, and Kingsley Enagbare during the offseason. Bailey was chosen second overall in the draft.

These moves turned McDonald into a situational player. Listed at 6 foot 4 and 245 pounds, he has struggled against the run. Over nine games, he has 13 tackles, three sacks, and one forced fumble across 263 defensive snaps. He has exceeded 30 snaps only once in the last five games.

Contract Details and Past Interest

McDonald was so frustrated with his reduced role that he asked to play on special teams. Teams have inquired about him in the past. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers were interested near the trade deadline last year, but New York decided to hold onto him.

The Jets eventually exercised his fifth year contract option. McDonald is set to earn a guaranteed $13.8 million in 2027, which marks the final year of his deal.

What it means for the next game

Buffalo Bills at New York Jets (NFL, Sun, 15 Nov): New York Jets win 22%, Buffalo Bills win 78%; projected score New York Jets 22, Buffalo Bills 30. Our safest pick: Bills to win.