Report: Will McDonald requests a trade away from the Jets

New York Jets defensive end Will McDonald IV has informed the team that he wants to be traded because he is extremely frustrated with his usage, according to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport as reported by Bleacher Report. However, Bleacher Report noted that the Jets have not engaged in trade talks with interested teams and have no plans to do so. At a record of 2-7, the Jets are experiencing another disappointing season under head coach Aaron Glenn, putting the franchise on track for a 16th straight year without a playoff appearance. During a recent 35-12 loss to the Kansas City Chiefs, frustrations boiled over as multiple players were seen throwing their helmets in anger.

Bleacher Report stated that McDonald has played in all nine of New York's games this season, producing 16 total tackles, three sacks, two fumble recoveries, and one forced fumble. The 27-year-old has reached the 10-sack mark just once in his four-year NFL career, and Rapoport noted that he is unhappy with his role and wants more opportunities. Despite his desire to leave, McDonald has failed to show improvement alongside rookie David Bailey, who was selected as the 2026 No. 2 pick and leads the team with 7.5 sacks and five forced fumbles.

Bleacher Report outlined several potential landing spots for McDonald if the Jets decide to change their stance and trade him. Potential destinations include the Jacksonville Jaguars, who recently acquired veteran safety Jessie Bates from the Atlanta Falcons. NFC options include the New York Giants and the Dallas Cowboys, both of which could benefit from pass-rush help as they rank near the bottom of the league in sacks. For now, the Jets do not want to give up on McDonald, though a strong offer could potentially tempt the team to recoup assets during a lost year.