The NFL Trade Deadline is on Tuesday, and there could still be a few blockbuster moves before the clock runs out. While New York Jets edge rusher Will McDonald IV may not be the biggest name available, he is a talented pass rusher who could make a difference for a contending team.
After requesting a trade Monday, McDonald appears ready for a fresh start. Fortunately for him, there are several teams that could use another edge rusher as they prepare for a potential Super Bowl run. Whether he becomes a starter or a valuable rotational piece, McDonald could help a contender improve its defense. The issue is that the Jets aren't keen on giving him away.
Here are four teams (in no order) that should consider making a move if they do end up making him available in the next 24 hours.
Detroit Lions
The Detroit Lions need another dominant edge rusher opposite Aidan Hutchinson. They are one of the better teams in the NFC, but playing in a loaded division means there is little room for error.
Adding McDonald would give Detroit another legit pass-rushing option and help take some pressure off Hutchinson. The Lions have Super Bowl aspirations, and they cannot afford to sit back while other NFC contenders improve their rosters.
Winning the division could make a major difference in Detroit's playoff path. If the Lions believe McDonald can help their defense take another step, this is the type of move they should pursue.
Buffalo Bills
The Buffalo Bills already have a solid defensive front, but adding depth never hurts when preparing for a championship run. McDonald could provide another option behind Greg Rousseau and Bradley Chubb while giving Buffalo more flexibility with its pass-rush rotations.
The Bills have the talent to compete with anyone in the AFC, and they need to take advantage of their opportunity. Their offense has the pieces to put points on the board, so adding another defensive playmaker should be a priority before the deadline. Buffalo has been searching for a way to get over the Super Bowl hump. McDonald might not be the biggest acquisition, but he could be another useful piece on a defense that needs to make plays when the postseason arrives.
Chicago Bears
The Chicago Bears might be the most intriguing landing spot for McDonald. They have already shown a willingness to improve their defensive front after acquiring Jeffrey Simmons, and the results have been encouraging. Chicago is 2-0 since that move and has an opportunity to make a serious run.
The Bears have also been connected to a potential Khalil Mack reunion. However, the Los Angeles Chargers may not be willing to move him, even with their 0-8 season. That could make McDonald an appealing alternative. McDonald could be an excellent addition, and this might be the best fit of the four teams.
San Francisco 49ers
The San Francisco 49ers are another team that should be looking for defensive help. Even after adding DeForest Buckner, they could use more depth along the defensive front.
Nick Bosa has been dealing with injuries, and San Francisco has been forced to navigate several health issues throughout its roster. That makes adding another edge rusher even more important. The 49ers have the talent to compete for a Super Bowl, but they need enough depth to survive the physical demands of a postseason run. McDonald could provide another pass-rushing option and help take some pressure off the players already carrying the workload.