
The New York Jets suffered another disappointing defeat on Sunday, falling 35-12 to Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs at Arrowhead Stadium. The loss extended their losing streak to four games and dropped them to 2-7 on the season, leaving little room for optimism as the team approaches the NFL trade deadline.
New York started well, putting together a 14-play opening drive and recovering a Kansas City fumble in the first half. However, both opportunities ended with field goals instead of touchdowns. The Jets managed only 58 yards after halftime, finished 2-of-12 on third downs and allowed five sacks. Geno Smith completed 18 of 32 passes for 165 yards, while Kansas City running back Kenneth Walker III scored three touchdowns.
Now, it appears the Jets might be forced to make a trade move before the trade deadline. According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, pass rusher Will McDonald IV has informed the Jets that he wants to be traded.
The former first-round pick is reportedly frustrated with his limited opportunities this season and wants a larger role. New York is aware of his request.
#Jets pass-rusher Will McDonald IV has informed the team that he wants to be traded, sources say.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) November 9, 2026
McDonald has played sparingly this season and is extremely frustrated with his usage. The former first-rounder wants more opportunities and the team is aware. pic.twitter.com/QCxFC0Ciwn
McDonald’s reduced workload has been a developing issue throughout the season. The Jets added several edge rushers, including first-round pick David Bailey, free-agent additions Joseph Ossai and Kingsley Enagbare, creating more competition for snaps.
McDonald has appeared in seven games this season, recording three sacks, seven solo tackles and one forced fumble, according to the Jets’ official statistics. His opportunities have been limited compared with previous seasons, and Bailey’s emergence has further complicated his place in the rotation.
The 27-year-old was selected 15th overall by New York in the 2023 NFL Draft after starring at Iowa State. He has recorded 24.5 sacks, 53 quarterback hits and 27 tackles for loss across 55 career appearances, establishing himself as a productive pass-rush option when given opportunities.
The Jets also exercised McDonald’s fifth-year option for 2027, meaning an acquiring team would have him under contract beyond this season. That could make him an appealing option for a contender looking to strengthen its defensive front.
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