Jets first-round pick Will McDonald IV has sights set on Hall of Fame
While some analysts believe the New York Jets reached for Will McDonald IV, they should have a future Hall of Famer if the Iowa State product meets his expectations.
New York unexpectedly selected the three-time All-Big 12 first-teamer with the 15th overall pick in the 2023 NFL draft despite not needing a defensive end. McDonald was the 25th highest-rated prospect in ESPN's prospect rankings.
Although the pick has drawn criticism, McDonald's production speaks volumes; his 34 career sacks are tied for the most in Big 12 history. The 6-foot-4, 239-pounder is not only confident he'll have more success in the NFL, but he's also aiming for a bust in Canton.
"I'm just gonna try to get to the Hall of Fame. I don't think I have a ceiling," McDonald said, via Rich Cimini of ESPN. "I want to keep rising. I want to keep improving, 1% every day."
Should McDonald achieve his ambitious goal, GM Joe Douglas will be relieved to have missed out on the top offensive linemen in the draft.
The Jets chose McDonald following a flurry of offensive tackle selections. After striking a deal with New England, Pittsburgh leapfrogged New York to draft Georgia's Broderick Jones 14th overall, likely knowing Jones would be the Jets' pick at 15.
It was evident McDonald wasn't the Jets' top preference when they were on the clock since they used most of their allotted time before handing in his draft card. There was a sense that New York was trying to trade back and acquire assets, having entered the draft carrying five picks. Douglas later admitted that he had "some conversations" about doing so.
Regardless of how the draft board played out, Douglas is thrilled to add another talented edge-rusher to his young, imposing defense.
"[We're] excited to add Will to the team," Douglas said during New York's post-draft news conference. "[I] feel like he's one of the most dynamic, if not the most dynamic pass rusher in this draft. A great combination of skill, production and athleticism."
The Jets have just one draft pick available for Day 2, 43rd overall. They initially held No. 74 but sent it and disgruntled wideout Elijah Moore to Cleveland for No. 42, a pick the Jets included in Monday's trade for quarterback Aaron Rodgers.
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