Jets’ quiet trade deadline brings about big defensive questions

The Jets made almost no changes at the NFL trade deadline despite a 2-7 record and four straight defeats, leaving questions about how they are managing their defence. Their decision to keep edge rusher Will McDonald IV, despite reports of a possible second-day draft pick offer and his request to leave, stands out as a potentially costly choice.

McDonald has three sacks, one forced fumble and 13 tackles in 263 defensive snaps this season, after losing playing time in the team’s new 3-4 scheme. Cornerback Nahshon Wright, who had five interceptions for Chicago last season, has played just 22 special-teams snaps, while the Jets have recorded only one interception in 26 games under coach Aaron Glenn. The team’s only deadline deal sent safety Andre Cisco to Detroit for a sixth-round pick; it also kept quarterback Geno Smith, receiver Garrett Wilson and running back Breece Hall.