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New York Jets pass rusher Will McDonald trying to make a play during an NFL game against the Cleveland Browns.

The New York Jets are holding onto their young defender.

Gang Green officially announced on social media that they have picked up the fifth-year team option on Will McDonald’s rookie contract.

According to Zack Rosenblatt of The Athletic, McDonald’s fifth-year option is “projected” to be worth $13.75 million.

McDonald Is Under Team Control Moving Forward

McDonald, 26, will turn 27 before the start of the 2026 season. With the Jets picking up the fifth-year option on his contract, McDonald is now under team control through the 2027 season.

For the 2026 season, McDonald is set to count $5.1 million against the cap. If you combine the two figures, McDonald will be under contract for two years at $18.85 million.

Production Speaks for Itself

In his NFL career, McDonald has appeared in 47 games and has made 29 starts. With those opportunities, he has collected 21.5 sacks, 25 tackles for loss, three forced fumbles, three pass deflections, two fumble recoveries, and 48 quarterback hits.

This is a developing story and we’ll provide new details as they become available.