Will McDonald IV has been dripping in New York Jets training camp, with the former Iowa State standout reportedly taking the next step in his development.
Last year, McDonald showed some of his potential as rookie for the Jets but didn’t have the output expected of a first-round pick.
Taken No. 15 overall last spring, McDonald had 14 tackles and three sacks as well as a pass defended in 15 games. Five times last year, he did not register a tackle.
It was a disappointing and frustrating season for McDonald, but this offseason’s gains appear to be making an impact in training camp. Head coach Robert Saleh, when asked on Wednesday about McDonald’s training camp performance, pointed towards a second-year edge rusher who is progressing and developing.
“Will, much, much stronger. I know he looks the same, but his strength in the run game, his strength in the pass game is showing up,” Saleh told reporters on Wednesday.
“He’s flashed a little bit. I know he’s gotten a couple of wins on our starting
tackles, and I really like the way he’s progressing.”
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In college at Iowa State, McDonald was three times an All-Pro selection.