Kayden McDonald - Ohio State
Measurables
Height - 6'2"
Weight - 326 lbs
Arm - 32 1/4"
Hand - 9 3/4"
Prospect Overview
McDonald broke out in his first year as a starter in 2025 after playing a reserve role for the 2024 National Champion Buckeyes. He was named Big Ten Conference Defensive Lineman of the Year in 2025 as well as First-Team All-Big Ten and First-Team Associated Press All-American. He was a finalist for the Outland Trophy, given to the nation's top interior lineman, after compiling 65 tackles, nine tackles for loss, three sacks and two forced fumbles.
Rankings and Analysis
Pro Football Focus: No. 28 overall (No. 1 DT)
"McDonald posted a career-best 86.0 PFF grade in 2025, fueled by elite run defense, where his 91.2 grade ranked first among qualifying FBS interior defenders. He backed that up with top-tier stability, landing in the 99th percentile in run-stop rate and 95th percentile in run-defense grade."
NFL.com (Daniel Jeremiah Top 50): No. 33 overall (No.1 DT)
"McDonald has excellent size and strength for the DT position. He's at his best against the run. He can press out blocks and disengage with violent torque. He's very firm and stout, collecting tackles from guard to guard…Overall, McDonald will provide value on run downs, but he needs to develop a better plan of attack as a pass rusher."
ESPN: No. 26 overall (No. 1 DT)
"McDonald was named Big 10 Defensive Lineman of the Year in 2025. He is an outstanding run defender and an ascending player. McDonald can anchor, locate the ball, get off the block and bring down ball carriers in the backfield. He plays low-to-high and does a good job of slipping or sidestepping blocks."