​The New York Jets have spent much of the offseason rewarding members of their young core, a strategy that has further ingratiated Darren Mougey with the fans and local media. Center Joe Tippmann recently signed a long-term extension, cementing another foundational piece for the franchise. Earlier this year, the Jets also exercised Will McDonald IV’s fifth-year option, ensuring the former first-round pick remains under contract through the 2027 season. While other players still need deals, the team isn’t panicking or rushing negotiations. What might that mean for McDonald?
One Jets insider isn’t convinced a new deal is imminent. ESPN’s NFL Nation released 2026 contract extension updates for all 32 teams, and Jets reporter Rich Cimini explained why New York should stay patient with McDonald. With the fifth-year option exercised, McDonald is under contract for the next two seasons at what Cimini calls a relative bargain. This gives the Jets time to evaluate another full season before committing a much larger sum, so there’s no rush to an agreement.
The approach mirrors Mougey’s general strategy of roster construction: gather information and avoid emotional, large-scale salary moves. McDonald has already justified the Jets’ 15th overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft. The former Big 12 co-Defensive Lineman of the Year has posted 21.5 sacks, 72 tackles, three forced fumbles, and two fumble recoveries in his young NFL career.
McDonald still has an opportunity to strengthen his case, as his burst off the edge has become one of New York’s most dangerous pass-rushing threats. A knee injury ended his 2025 season in Week 16, but he enters another pivotal year healthy. Cimini added that Tippmann’s extension likely wraps up the Jets’ major offseason contract activity, though a strong 2026 campaign could further bolster McDonald’s negotiating position and reinforce his status as a long-term cornerstone. That shouldn’t be viewed as hesitation about McDonald; rather, it’s smart roster management. By already exercising his fifth-year option, the Jets have protected themselves and given McDonald a renewed chance to prove he’s worth an even bigger deal.