Jets’ Decisions Loom for Will McDonald IV as Season Winds Down

In this stage of the evaluation period—essentially, when the game results aren’t the primary focus anymore—the Jets are keeping details about Will McDonald IV under wraps.

The first-round pick from 2023 was placed on injured reserve due to a knee injury on Friday, which puts the Jets in a tough spot for the offseason. They’ll need to consider his performance after a rollercoaster season.

By May, they’ll have to decide whether to exercise his fifth-year option before he heads into his fourth season in the NFL.

McDonald has led the Jets in sacks for the second year in a row, but there are still questions about the wisdom of that pick. Last year, he achieved 10.5 sacks, marking a breakout year as a defensive end. This season, though, he’s been more inconsistent, struggling to make an impact against the run and mostly being utilized in passing situations.

Does it make sense to guarantee around $15 million for a player in his position for the 2027 season?

At 26, McDonald will wrap up this season with eight sacks, and notably, half of those came in a single game against the Browns in November.

He also notched a career-high 30 total tackles over 15 games.

On another note, linebacker Kiko Mauigoa (shoulder) and defensive lineman Jay Tufre (ankle) have also been placed on injured reserve.

Tight end Mason Taylor (neck) is set to miss his third straight game against the Patriots.

Offensive lineman Xavier Newman (knee) is questionable for the upcoming game. Meanwhile, defensive linemen Harrison Phillips (knee) and Eric Watts (concussion) fully participated in Friday’s practice. Quarterback Tyrod Taylor did not practice, citing “personal reasons.”

Head coach Aaron Glenn is shifting focus to the Jets’ younger secondary, particularly following a tough loss against the Saints last week. With injuries piling up, undrafted rookies Jordan Clark and Dean Clark are expected to see time at safety alongside rookie safety Malachi Moore. Second-year cornerback Quantez Stigers has mainly contributed on special teams but will increase his defensive presence.

“Getting those three rookies a lot of reps has been crucial for us,” Glenn remarked. “It’s not just about them. Stigs has started at corner for the last few games, and we have a clear understanding of his responsibilities. He’s been doing a solid job for us.”