Jets Coach Says Roster Will Stay Put Despite Star's Trade Request
Aaron Glenn insists the New York Jets will hold their key players through the NFL trade deadline, even as Will McDonald IV seeks a move and the team battles a four-game losing streak.
By Harper Foster ·
New York Jets head coach Aaron Glenn stated on Monday that the team’s roster will remain largely unchanged as the NFL trade deadline approaches. This decision comes despite a formal trade request from edge rusher Will McDonald IV and the franchise’s current 2-7 record. Glenn said the organization is currently in a mode of retaining talent rather than selling assets.
The Jets are on a four-game losing streak and are trending toward missing the postseason for the 16th consecutive year. Glenn acknowledged the team’s struggles but emphasized the value of stability. He noted that the coaching staff and management are focused on keeping good players on the roster for the remainder of the season.
McDonald, the 16th overall pick in the 2023 draft, has expressed frustration over his reduced role under the new defensive scheme. He has recorded three sacks this season, down from a career-high 10.5 in 2024. His status has shifted from a primary starter to a situational player, a change that has driven his desire for a trade.
Glenn defended the decision to keep McDonald, citing a strong personal relationship and a recent productive conversation. The coach described McDonald as a good player and said the staff will continue to find ways to put him in positions to make plays. Glenn indicated that while he never rules out a move, the current plan is to hold firm.
The situation contrasts sharply with the previous year’s deadline. Last year, general manager Darren Mougey traded star cornerback Sauce Gardner to the Indianapolis Colts and defensive lineman Quinnen Williams to the Dallas Cowboys. Those moves netted the Jets three first-round picks, a second-round selection, and wide receiver Adonai Mitchell.
This year’s deadline is set for Tuesday at 4 p.m. Eastern Time. Glenn said he and Mougey continue to discuss potential options, but no major moves are currently in the works. The coach suggested that other prominent players, such as wide receiver Garrett Wilson and running back Breece Hall, are also expected to stay with the team.
Beyond the trade deadline, Glenn is evaluating his own approach to game management. He took over defensive play-calling duties this season, working alongside coordinator Brian Duker. He acknowledged that the defense has struggled in recent weeks, particularly in high-leverage situations where the unit failed to stop drives.
Glenn said he is open to making changes to improve performance. He stated that he is looking at every aspect of the operation and is not afraid to adjust strategies if it leads to better results. He emphasized that his focus is on finding specific ways to get the team back on track.
The Jets’ offensive struggles were evident in their recent loss to the Kansas City Chiefs. New York ran 32 plays in Kansas City territory but could not score a touchdown. They settled for field goals on their opening possession and the following two drives. The team’s inability to convert field position into points has become a recurring issue.
Rookie first-round pick David Bailey provided a bright spot in the loss. After missing a week with a groin injury, Bailey recorded two sacks and six quarterback pressures. His performance contributed to his season totals of 7.5 sacks. Wide receiver Adonai Mitchell, who had a breakout game the previous week, was held without a catch and dropped two passes on seven targets.
