Will McDonald: Everything you need to know

The Jets picked up the fifth-year option on McDonald's (knee) rookie contract Wednesday, Eric Allen of the team's official site reports. McDonald has tallied 18.5 sacks in 32 games over the last two seasons, so it comes as little surprise that the Jets have opted to keep him under their control through the end of the 2027 season. Even though the club recently used the second overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft on defensive end David Bailey, McDonald figures to get about as much work as he can handle during the upcoming campaign.

Jets GM Darren Mougey said Monday that he expects McDonald (knee) to have his fifth-year option picked up, Zack Rosenblatt of The Athletic reports. McDonald missed the final two games of the 2025 campaign due to a knee issue, ending the year with 30 tackles (19 solo), including 8.0 sacks, across 15 regular-season appearances. If the fifth-year option on his rookie deal indeed is picked up by New York, McDonald will remain under contract with the Jets through the 2027 season.

The Jets placed McDonald (knee) on injured reserve Friday, Susanna Weir of the Jets' official site reports. McDonald was unable to practice all week after suffering a knee injury in the Jets' Week 16 loss to the Saints. The 26-year-old's move to IR ensures he is done for the season, likely giving Braiden McGregor more reps in McDonald's place. The third-year pro accounted for 30 tackles (19 solo), including 8.0 sacks in 15 games played.