The New York Jets made waves amid the typical offseason announcements of roster changes and contract negotiations, revealing a series of jersey number switches that carry deeper significance for several players.
Edge rusher Will McDonald IV, coming off a breakthrough season with 10.5 sacks, has opted to reconnect with his collegiate identity.
The Jets confirmed McDonald will wear No. 9 in 2025, returning to the digit he wore at Iowa State.
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— New York Jets (@nyjets) May 19, 2025
The number became available after kicker Greg Zuerlein was released, giving McDonald the opportunity to shed No. 99 as he enters his third NFL season.
The timing of this change coincides with increased expectations for McDonald. With the Jets thin at edge rusher, and Jermaine Johnson coming back from a torn Achilles, McDonald faces mounting pressure to develop into more than a pass rushing specialist.
The upcoming OTA period represents a crucial opportunity for him to demonstrate his evolution into an every-down defensive force.
McDonald isn’t alone in refreshing his on-field identity.
Wide receiver Xavier Gipson will transition from No. 82, which he wore both in college and his first two professional seasons, to No. 3.
Meanwhile, wide receiver Malachi Corley, who cycled through No. 17 and No. 14 as a rookie, is settling on No. 6.
The jersey makeover extends throughout the roster. Punter Austin McNamara claimed No. 14, safety Jarius Monroe will sport No. 25, kicker Caden Davis transitions to No. 43, punter Kai Kroeger moves to No. 46, and offensive lineman Kohl Levao rounds out the changes with No. 60.
