Will McDonald IV is the New York Jets edge rusher who wears No. 9 and enters his fourth NFL season as the team’s leading pass rusher. The club exercised his fifth-year option in April 2026 after he posted 18.5 sacks across the previous two seasons. See the full Jets roster hub.
Background and Path to the Jets
McDonald heads the Jets’ pass-rush group and is seeking a third consecutive season leading the team in sacks. The club described him as the front man of an edge unit that also carries Joseph Ossai, Kingsley Enagbare and Braiden McGregor.
On April 29, 2026 the Jets exercised the fifth-year option on his rookie contract, a decision the club tied directly to his 18.5 sacks over the two prior seasons. He was placed on injured reserve on December 26, 2025, ending his 2025 campaign early.
He lines up alongside rookie David Bailey, the second overall pick of the 2026 draft, in a front the club rebuilt around pressure and run-stopping size.
Career Snapshot
| Period | Team | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | New York Jets | Selected in the first round |
| 2024–2025 | New York Jets | 18.5 sacks across the two seasons |
| Dec 26, 2025 | New York Jets | Placed on injured reserve |
| Apr 29, 2026 | New York Jets | Fifth-year option exercised |
| 2026 | New York Jets | Enters his fourth season as the primary edge rusher |
Current Status
As of the club’s final Week 2 injury report, published Friday, September 19, 2026, McDonald was listed as Questionable with an ankle injury. He did not appear on Wednesday’s report, was added Thursday as a limited participant and was limited again Friday. Full detail is in our report on his ankle injury, and designations are tracked on the Jets injury hub.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Will McDonald IV?
Will McDonald IV is an edge rusher for the New York Jets who wears No. 9. He entered the NFL as a first-round pick in 2023 and is in his fourth season with the club.
How many sacks does Will McDonald IV have?
The Jets cited 18.5 sacks over the 2024 and 2025 seasons when they exercised his fifth-year option in April 2026. He has led the team in sacks in each of the last two seasons.
Did the Jets pick up Will McDonald’s fifth-year option?
Yes. The Jets exercised the fifth-year option on his rookie contract on April 29, 2026.
What is Will McDonald IV’s injury status?
On the club’s final Week 2 injury report, dated September 19, 2026, he was listed as Questionable with an ankle injury after two limited practices.
What number does Will McDonald IV wear?
He wears No. 9 for the New York Jets.