Jets’ Saleh Explains How Aaron Rodgers Impacted Choice at No. 15

One of the surprises of the first round of the NFL draft on Thursday night came when the Jets selected Iowa State outside linebacker undefined.

Many did not expect the Cyclones product to go to a team with as much depth as the Jets have at linebacker, but when asked about the selection in his media session after the pick was made, Jets coach Robert Saleh explained that drafting McDonald had a lot to do with Aaron Rodgers.

“You know how we play [on defense], we come at you in waves,” Saleh said. “We dress 10 guys on gameday [at linebacker]. With Aaron here, hopefully we’re playing with a few more leads.”

As for McDonald, he couldn’t have been more excited to land with the Jets. McDonald grew up in Wisconsin, and while not a Packers fan in his youth, he was a big fan of Rodgers when he was in Green Bay. Now he has a chance to play with one of his childhood idols with the Jets.

“It’s a dream come true,” McDonald said. “Being able to be around his mindset and how he works. I want to be around all that positivity.”