New York Jets News: Jets Pick Up Fifth-Year Option on Edge Will McDonald IV

TL;DR

The New York Jets have exercised the fifth-year option on edge rusher Will McDonald IV, securing his contract through the 2026 season. This decision reflects the team's commitment to enhancing their pass rush strategy.

Key points

Jets exercise fifth-year option on Will McDonald IV
McDonald IV's contract extended through the 2026 season
Decision reflects team's focus on improving pass rush

New York JetsWill McDonald IV

EAST RUTHERFORD, NEW JERSEY - OCTOBER 19: Mason Taylor #85 of the New York Jets is tackled by Christian Rozeboom #56 of the Carolina Panthers during the game at MetLife Stadium on October 19, 2025 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Ishika Samant/Getty Images) | Getty Images Good morning Gang Green Nation! Here are your links to your New York Jets this glorious Thursday in April: Jack Bell – Notebook | Jets GM Darren Mougey’s Revamped Process Laid Groundwork for Draft Success Eric Allen – Jets Pick Up Fifth-Year Option on Edge Will McDonald IV Randy Lange – Does Kenyon Sadiq Hold Combine Mark for Fastest 40 by a TE? He’s in the Conversation Eric Allen – Are the Jets Done at Quarterback? – Jets pick up Will McDonald option as team plans for dynamic pass-rushing duo – Jets pick up fifth-year option on defensive end Will McDonald – 2026 NFL Draft: Highlights of Jets’ seventh-round pick S VJ Payne – Jets exercise Will McDonald fifth-year option, what that means – Jets TE Kenyon Sadiq earns elite comparisons from III – ESPN’s Field Yates: believes Jets struck gold with Omar Cooper Jr. – Jets’ quarterback situation is about to become even more awkward if they take the next steps with Pro Bowl signal caller – Jets Decline ’s Fifth-Year Option – Jets Pick Up Will McDonald’s Fifth-Year Option – Jets’ news is somehow flying under the radar – Jets made three of ESPN’s top-10 best selections in 2026 NFL Draft – Jets to Pick up Fifth-Year Option on Will McDonald – Analyzing how Day Three picks of the 2026 NFL Draft fit on the Jets – Jets’ dream may come true as Lions set up 2027 free agent frenzy – Jets 2027 NFL mock draft has New York passing on QB in top-five – Advanced metrics show Jets may have found a hidden gem in – Jets Backup Plans Could Involve Super Bowl Champion QB – Jets rumors: The Broncos reason Darren Mougey may have drafted Cade Klubnik – Jets bold predictions for 2026 NFL Draft class during rookie season – 3 Jets picks land in Matt Miller’s top 10 of 2026 NFL Draft – Jets rookie from 2026 NFL Draft class who will make biggest impact in Year 1 Here are your from yesterday.

Q&A

What does it mean for the Jets to pick up Will McDonald IV's fifth-year option?

Exercising the fifth-year option means the Jets will retain Will McDonald IV for an additional year, ensuring he remains under contract through the 2026 season.

How does Will McDonald IV's fifth-year option impact the Jets' salary cap?

The fifth-year option will increase the Jets' salary cap commitment for McDonald, but it allows them to keep a key player in their defensive lineup without immediate long-term financial obligations.

Who is Will McDonald IV and why is he important to the Jets?

Will McDonald IV is an edge rusher for the Jets, and his role is crucial for the team's defensive strategy, particularly in enhancing their pass-rushing capabilities.