NFL Trade Rumor: Frustrated $30M New York Jets edge defender linked to San Francisco 49ers and Detroit Lions amid lack of usage

In Dec. 2024, Deebo Samuel took to social media to push back against critics, stating, “Not struggling at all, just not getting the ball.” Garrett Wilson voiced mounting frustration over the New York Jets’ struggles, the offense’s lack of creativity, and his inconsistent involvement in the passing game, particularly with Geno Smith’s presence on the sideline.Early in the 2025 season when A.J. Brown received just one target in the final two minutes because of extra defensive coverage, he clearly told reporters that his lack of involvement was not something he could control, thereby casting a terrible spotlight on the game plan.Everybody has faced troubles with their teams in the past. Brown’s trade came after a continued lack of targets alongside DeVonta Smith and alleged growing differences between him and Jalen Hurts. He reportedly started his own trade rumors. Today, he is with the New England Patriots.Likewise, New York Jets’ edge defender Will McDonald voiced his opinion, stating that he wanted to be traded. “He has played sparingly this season and is extremely frustrated with his usage,” NFL insider Ian Rapoport wrote on X.And so, Lindy’s Sports’ Cole Shelton has linked the San Francisco 49ers and the Detroit Lions to the Iowa State alum. Let’s find out how and why.Will McDonald for San Francisco 49ersWill McDonald could act as insurance for Nick Bosa in San Francisco. Bosa has an injury history and he only recently returned to the lineup. Having another impactful pass rusher could help shoulder Bosa’s responsibilities, thereby ensuring he remains healthy for the playoffs.McDonald could be a solid rotational depth option for the San Francisco 49ers alongside Bosa, Keion White, Mykel Williams, and Romello Height.The 49ers have already strengthened their interior defensive line by bringing in DeForest Buckner from the Indianapolis Colts midseason - adding McDonald IV could only further bolster their win-now approach.Detroit Lions could add Will McDonald IVLosing Jack Campbell would not have been easy for Dan Campbell’s team - the Detroit Lions. Even though Campbell is an inside linebacker and not a pass rusher, the Lions still need to strengthen their defense. And who better than someone who feels undervalued elsewhere? Enter - Will McDonald IV.He could be an impeccable option alongside Aidan Hutchinson, giving the defense a formidable duo to get after opposing quarterbacks. Detroit’s offense is solid, and if its defense also becomes stronger, the Lions might become unstoppable in the NFC. The 2026 NFL trade deadline is today, November 10, 2026, at 4:00 PM ET.What lies ahead for the 27-year-old New York Jets edge rusher? Because New York Jets head coach Aaron Glenn suggested that McDonald might not be traded.“I just know we’re in the business of keeping good players, so Will’s going to be here. He’s a good player and I believe that. We’re going to continue to try to put him in position to go make plays for us,” the coach said.Will McDonald trade rumorsCategoryDetailsPlayer Will McDonald Current TeamNew York JetsPossible Midseason Trade DestinationsSan Francisco 49ers, Detroit Lions, Buffalo Bills, Tennessee Titans, Atlanta Falcons, and Tampa Bay BuccaneersCurrent Contract Status2026 is the fourth year of his 2023 rookie contract.Total Contract ValueMcDonald signed a 4-year, $16.32 million rookie contract with the New York Jets, including an $8.87 million signing bonus, $16.32 million guaranteed, and an average annual salary of $4.08 million. In March 2026, New York exercised a $14.4 million fifth year option for 2027.Cap Hit and Dead Cap ValueIn 2026, McDonald will earn a base salary of $1.66 million, a roster bonus of $1.3 million and a workout bonus of $7,480, while carrying a cap hit of $5.2 million and a dead cap value of $19.67 million.Years Left UFA [unrestricted free agent] in 2028, two years left.Total Career Earnings$30 million after New York exercised his fifth-year option for 2027, according to Spotrac. Otherwise, McDonald’s total career earnings through 2026 stand at $16.3 million.Get the latest Sports News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.