Jets reportedly in 'no rush' to extend $16.75 million first-round pass rusher

The New York Jets have made numerous significant financial commitments this offseason as Aaron Glenn and Darren Mougey attempt to retain their jobs following a disappointing 2025 season.

While a significant amount of money has been spent on free agency and trades, the Jets have also made some internal extensions. Breece Hall and Joe Tippmann got huge new deals. But, who's next?

Well, according to ESPN's Rich Cimini, the Jets are not expected to make a long-term extension with first-rounder and $16.75 million pass rusher Will McDonald IV this offseason, as they're in no rush for a deal.

Jets in 'no rush' to extend Will McDonald IV

"The Jets exercised McDonald's fifth-year option for 2027 ($13.74 million), so they have him under contract for two years at $16.75 million -- a relative bargain," Cimini writes. "There's no rush to get anything done long term. They will let him play out the 2026 season and reevaluate at that point."

Even though the Jets might have the means to extend McDonald long-term, this update from Cimini reveals the team is not in any rush to sign him to a new deal.

Instead, the Jets will determine the likelihood of a new deal following the 2026 NFL season, and McDonald's fourth season in the NFL.

He's been a solid young pass rusher, recording 10.5 sacks in 2024 and then 8.0 in 2025. Hopefully, with David Bailey and some more help on the defensive side of the ball, McDonald will be able to have a more productive 2026 season.

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The 2023 first-rounder has shown promise in his career already, and thanks to the fifth-year option being picked up, he's under contract for the next two seasons.

New York might not decide for some time, unless McDonald has a great 2026 season, and the Jets want to lock him up long-term.

But, it's also possible the Jets trade him to further conduct their rebuild, getting younger, and adding premium draft capital.

When it comes to an extension, however, McDonald is going to have to wait a while, as this report from Cimini indicates the Jets are in "no rush" to sign him to a long-term deal.

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