Will McDonald: 2025 NFL sack king? | NY Jets Film Review

“Who?”

That was the reaction of many New York Jets fans when Will McDonald’s name was called with the 15th overall pick in 2023.

Now, the entire NFL may soon know his name.

McDonald played a minimal role in his rookie season, starting none of his 15 appearances and logging just 184 snaps. However, he showed potential in his small role, racking up three sacks, five quarterback hits, a forced fumble, and a fumble recovery with less than 100 chances to rush the passer.

McDonald’s arrow was pointing up entering the 2024 season. His role quickly grew after Jermaine Johnson’s Week 2 injury, and McDonald responded with a breakout season as a pass rusher. In 17 games, McDonald jumped to 10.5 sacks and 24 quarterback hits. He was one of only five edge rushers to post those numbers.

It was a promising performance for the second-year pass rusher. But as good as the numbers look, his film is even better.

When watching McDonald on the All-22, you see a player who looks the part of a potential sack king. He is explosive out of his stance, bendy around the corner, and has long arms. To go with his physical tools, he has built a wide package of moves to throw at offensive tackles.

If he continues on his trajectory, McDonald will push for the NFL’s sack title in 2025.

But what about McDonald’s run defense? Despite his excellent pass rushing skills, the Iowa State product has been criticized for his play against the run. Is he as bad as people think? How can he improve?

Only the film can answer those questions.

Below is Blewett’s Blitz’s full Will McDonald film review, analyzing 50 plays across every game from McDonald’s 2024 season.