Bryce Huff's departure opens up a role that can potentially be filled by New York Jets' 2023 first-round draft pick Will McDonald.
Presuming that incumbent starter Jermaine Johnson and offseason addition Haason Reddick will man the two starting defensive end spots, McDonald seems to be a prime candidate to take the third-down pass rush reps that belonged to Huff last year.
After being selected No. 15 overall in the 2023 NFL Draft, McDonald saw limited action in what was practically a redshirt season. He played about 19 percent of defensive snaps, accounting for 3.0 sacks and five quarterback hits.
The 25-year-old McDonald showed above average get-off last season, but lacked the size and strength needed to be a consistent factor in the NFL. According to head coach Robert Saleh, McDonald has made noticeable improvement.
"He's gotten stronger, it may not look it. He is a slight frame, that's his makeup, but you can see his strength. We can't see all the physicality because it's a little bit more tempered, but with regard to Will I think he's put in a good offseason," said Saleh during June minicamp in Florham Park.
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McDonald, who posted a Big 12 Conference record 34.0 sacks for Iowa State, is apparently expected to continue his progress heading into training camp.
"These next 40 days are big for him, and we'll see when pads come on," said Saleh.
The Jets will open training camp with veterans reporting on July 23.