Overview
- The Jets have exercised McDonald’s fifth‑year option to keep team control through 2027 but are willing to hear offers before the November 10 trade deadline.
- League analysts and outlets have named Cincinnati, Cleveland, San Francisco, Carolina and Chicago as realistic landing spots for the 27‑year‑old former first‑round pick.
- The Bengals’ need for pass‑rush depth grew after rookie Cashius Howell was placed on injured reserve following wrist surgery on Tuesday, increasing Cincinnati’s interest in additions.
- McDonald’s role in New York has shrunk this season—he has started two of eight games and has three sacks in 2026—which frames him as a rotational, lower‑cost option for buyers.
- Most evaluators peg his trade value at roughly a late Day‑2 or early Day‑3 draft pick (third‑ to fourth‑round range), a price shaped by his production, age and the Jets’ projected 2027 draft capital.