Jets surprise at NFL Draft, take Iowa State edge rusher Will McDonald in first round

75756A5E-120A-4932-810C-2FD980DB785E

The Jets made a surprise move with the 15th overall pick, taking edge rusher Will McDonald IV from Iowa State.

Gang Green’s 15th pick, originally a 13th pick until the Aaron Rodgers trade, was widely expected to be used for an offensive lineman to protect their new starting quarterback, but instead, they beef up a defense that took a tremendous leap last season.

McDonald was a menace in opposing backfields in the Big 12 during his college career, posting a 90.2 pass rush grade since 2021, per Pro Football Focus.

The pick is the first time an Iowa State player has been taken in the first round since 1973, which was the longest drought in the nation by a Power 5 team.

Follow Ryan Chichester on Twitter: @ryanchichester1

Follow WFAN on Social Media
Twitter  |  Facebook  |  Instagram  |  YouTube  |  Twitch

Listen live to WFAN:
Audacy App  |  Online Stream  |  Smart Speaker (just say ‘Play W-F-A-N’)

Featured Image Photo Credit: Stacy Revere | Getty Images