New York Jets defensive end Will McDonald IV has formally requested a trade from the organization, according to reports from SB Nation. The 2023 first-round pick out of Iowa State has emerged as a potential target for the San Francisco 49ers, who continue to seek pass-rush depth.
McDonald, wearing number 9, was photographed during the Jets' 38-33 loss to the Las Vegas Raiders at MetLife Stadium on November 1, 2026. The 25-year-old edge rusher has shown flashes of his collegiate production but has struggled to secure a consistent role in New York's defensive rotation.
The 49ers, perennial contenders in the NFC, have monitored the pass-rush market throughout the season. San Francisco's defensive front, while talented, has dealt with injuries and inconsistency, making a player of McDonald's athletic profile an intriguing mid-season acquisition possibility.
Any potential deal would require the Jets to absorb salary-cap implications and the 49ers to part with draft capital. New York's front office has not publicly commented on the trade request, and it remains unclear whether the organization intends to honor it before the league's trade deadline.
