Jets Edge Rusher Will McDonald Requests Trade Amid Snap Count Frustration

New York Jets edge rusher Will McDonald has requested a trade, signaling deepening frustration with his diminished role on the defensive line. According to the New York Post ^[1], McDonald is unhappy with his usage this season and informed the team of his desire to be dealt. The request comes just one day before the NFL trade deadline, placing the Jets in a difficult position as they weigh the value of keeping a player who feels sidelined.

ESPN reported ^[2] that McDonald approached coaches weeks ago seeking more opportunities, but no changes materialized. The situation has escalated to the point where McDonald even asked for a role on special teams, a stark contrast to his status as a former first-round pick. His snap count has plummeted to 46 percent this year, down from 66 percent last season, according to the New York Post ^[1].

McDonald, 27, was drafted 15th overall in 2023 by the previous regime. He recorded 10.5 sacks in 2024, but the arrival of coach Aaron Glenn in 2025 marked a shift in philosophy. ESPN noted ^[2] that Glenn believed McDonald had been coached improperly and initially promised him a significant impact. However, the Jets' switch to a 3-4 defense and the addition of edge rushers David Bailey, Joseph Ossai, and Kingsley Enagbare pushed McDonald down the depth chart. Despite injuries to those new additions forcing McDonald into more action than expected, his role remains inconsistent.

The Jets have rebuffed previous inquiries about trading for McDonald, including interest from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers last year, according to ESPN ^[2]. However, the current dynamic may force them to reconsider. McDonald is set to earn a guaranteed $13.8 million in 2027, which marks the final year of his contract, as reported by the New York Post ^[1]. Trading him would remove this significant financial burden before the next season begins.

While the Jets are not actively working to trade him, the pressure is mounting. McDonald has started two games this season and recorded three sacks, one forced fumble, and 13 tackles in nine games, per ESPN ^[2]. His frustration is palpable, having spoken to coaches repeatedly without resolution. The NFL trade deadline is set for Tuesday at 4 p.m. ET, leaving the Jets with little time to decide whether to let McDonald walk or double down on their defensive strategy.

This situation highlights the growing tension between veteran players and new coaching schemes. McDonald is not alone in his discontent; cornerback Nahshon Wright has also expressed openness to a trade, according to ESPN ^[2]. As the deadline looms, all eyes will be on New York to see if they can resolve this internal conflict or if they will part ways with a key piece of their recent draft history.