The New York Jets have spent much of the offseason rewarding members of their young core. It’s a business model that has further ingratiated Darren Mougey with the fan base and local media.
Center Joe Tippmann recently signed a long-term extension, solidifying another foundational piece of the franchise. Earlier this year, the organization also exercised Will McDonald’s fifth-year option, ensuring the former first-round pick remains under contract through the 2027 season.
Other Jets need to be taken care of, but that doesn’t mean the team is panicking. They aren’t in any rush, so what might that mean for Will McDonald IV?
Though it may seem as though an announcement of a new deal is right around the corner. One Jets insider isn’t convinced that is the case.
The Jets have time on their side
ESPN’s NFL Nation recently released 2026 NFL contract extension updates for all 32 teams, a recent league-wide contract extension preview. According to Jets reporter Rich Cimini, the expectation is that New York will remain patient before opening serious negotiations with McDonald.
He explained why there is little urgency for either side. By exercising McDonald’s fifth-year option, the Jets now have the former Iowa State Cyclones standout under contract for the next two seasons at what Cimini described as a relative bargain.
That flexibility allows the organization to evaluate another full season before making a much larger financial commitment. In other words, the Jets don’t have to rush.
The strategy also aligns with how general manager Darren Mougey has approached roster construction during his tenure. Rather than making emotional decisions, the organization has consistently shown a willingness to gather as much information as possible before committing significant salary-cap resources.
McDonald has already demonstrated why the Jets invested the 15th overall selection in him during the 2023 NFL Draft. The former Big 12 co-Defensive Lineman of the Year has totaled 21.5 sacks, 72 tackles, three forced fumbles, and two fumble recoveries during his young NFL career.
Patience benefits everyone involved
Will McDonald still has another opportunity to strengthen his case. His burst off the edge has developed into one of New York’s most dangerous pass-rushing weapons. Unfortunately, his 2025 season ended early after a knee injury landed him on injured reserve following Week 16. Now healthy, he enters another pivotal season.
Cimini also noted that Tippmann’s extension likely concludes the Jets’ major contract business for this offseason, but a productive 2026 campaign would only strengthen McDonald’s negotiating position. It also gives the Jets additional confidence that he deserves to become one of the organization’s long-term cornerstones.
That shouldn’t be interpreted as hesitation regarding McDonald. Instead, it reflects smart roster management. The Jets have already protected themselves by exercising his fifth-year option.
McDonald has another opportunity to prove he’s worth a lucrative second contract. If both sides continue on their current trajectory, extension talks next offseason could become one of New York’s top priorities. For now, there appears to be no pressure on either side. The Jets have time, McDonald has motivation, and both will have a much clearer picture once the 2026 season comes to an end.
This article originally appeared on Jets Wire: Jets expected to remain patient with Will McDonald extension
Reporting by Geoffrey A Knox, Jets Wire / Jets Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Geoffrey A Knox, Jets Wire | USA TODAY Network
