In the newest episode of "The Football Room," James Foster turned back the clock to the 2023 NFL Draft.
After watching their rookie seasons, we re-graded the first 16 picks in the first round. Which included the New York Jets selection of Will McDonald IV with the 15th pick.
This article will share how we graded the pick, as well as some of what we had to say about McDonald IV.
James Foster: C+
"He plays anywhere from 12 to 16 snaps per game. He will come in for a third down he will come in for a drive here and there. I was pleasantly surprised with the flashes he showed on tape. I don't know how to assign a letter grade for a player that played so little snaps. A C+ is basically my stand-in grade for an incomplete."
Destin Adams: B
"Last year, the Jets had multiple players playing ahead of him. Huff (Bryce) signed with the Eagles, but they traded for Haason Reddick. I went with a B because of the talent I see, but the problem here is I don't know how soon he will be able to be a starter for this team."
I got to watch McDonald IV compete up close at the 2023 Senior Bowl. And I left that week penciling him in as a first-round talent. His ability to utilize his athleticism and pass rush moves in Mobile was so smooth, and he just looked the part of an NFL pass rusher. His role as a rookie was minimal with the Jets, but I think his best football is still clearly in front of him. I expect to see his snap count increase this year, and if he can replicate his dominance at the Senior Bowl, the Jets could have a young elite pass rusher at their disposal.
Check out the rest of what James and I had to say about McDonald IV and the rest of the first half of the first round of the 2023 NFL Draft by checking out the episode now.
