Defensive Tackle
2
Kayden McDonald
2026 NFL Draft Prospect
- Height: 6-2
- Weight: 326
- School: Ohio State
- Class: Junior
| PRO | CON |
|---|---|
| McDonald is an absolute unit. As one of the strongest players in the draft class, he controlled the line of scrimmage for the Buckeyes. Gets blockers on their heels with a nasty bull rush and power at the point of attack. Can move laterally with ease. | Outside of the bull rush, his pass rush ability is limited and simple. Will go high out of his stance at times, especially on run downs. This compromises his footwork and allows blockers to reach the second level. |
OVERVIEW: It's often said there is no better teammate for a talented linebacker than a talented defensive tackle. McDonald was that guy for both Arvell Reese and Sonny Styles as they put together first-round caliber tape. McDonald was the anchor of the Ohio State front seven that allowed the most talented second-level in college football to do its job. That's why he earned first-team All-America honors and was named the Big Ten Defensive Lineman of the Year in 2025.
COMPARISON: Derrick Harmon
SCOUTING COMBINE STATS: 40: –– B: –– VJ: –– BJ: –– 3cone: –– 20SHTL: ––