New York Jets defensive end Will McDonald IV is in a critical contract year.
His form throughout the 2026 season will determine his fate in East Rutherford.
Thus far, McDonald isn't performing like a player Jets GM Darren Mougey will want to re-sign next offseason.
McDonald was dominant versus the Tennessee Titans in Week 1. The former Iowa State edge rusher recorded five pressures and a sack. It was the only game the Jets have won this season, as they now embark on an ongoing three-game losing streak.
The 15th overall selection in the 2023 NFL draft has been far less productive since Week 1. McDonald has totaled just four combined pressures in Weeks 2-4. He hasn't registered his second sack yet.
The entire Jets defensive line looked incompetent
throughout the Week 5 Chicago Bears beatdown. The Bears possessed the ball for over 42 minutes. McDonald played 66 ineffective snaps as a result.
Unfortunately, it appears McDonald will be remembered as yet another Joe Douglas draft-day mistake. He's not been consistent as a pass rusher, and he's a downright liability versus the run. The Jets can't be pleased with McDonald's current play. He's unlikely to be wanted back by Mougey in 2027.
Jets Wire will continue to provide updates throughout the 2026 NFL season.
This article originally appeared on Jets Wire: Will McDonald isn't producing like a player the Jets will re-sign
