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ESPN names Texans DL Kayden McDonald among best draft fits of 2026 class
TL;DR
Kayden McDonald, a defensive lineman from Ohio State, is highlighted by ESPN as one of the best draft fits for the Houston Texans in 2026. His skills as a run game disruptor and potential as a pass rusher make him a valuable addition to DeMeco Ryans' defense.
Key points
- Kayden McDonald is a defensive lineman from Ohio State.
- ESPN named him one of the best draft fits for the Texans in 2026.
- He recorded 17 tackles for loss and three sacks in 2025.
- McDonald is seen as a run game disruptor with pass-rushing potential.
- He will enhance the Texans' defensive line under coach DeMeco Ryans.
Mentioned in this story
Ohio StateDeMeco Ryans
Kayden McDonaldHouston TexansWill Anderson Jr.Danielle Hunter
Just how good is newcomer Kayden McDonald joining the Houston Texans squad in 2026?
Better yet, how good of a fit is McDonald in DeMeco Ryans' defense as the long-term one-tech?
ESPN’s Matt Bowen loves McDonald's arrival for Ryan's future of Houston's trench play. Recently, the longtime NFL analyst named the selection of the Ohio State product as one of the 15 best fits of the draft.
"With more range than a traditional nose tackle, McDonald is a true run game disruptor. He used his foot quickness and power to make splash plays at Ohio State, leading to 17 tackles at or behind the line of scrimmage in 2025. McDonald can boost the interior of coach DeMeco Ryans' defense as an early-down defender, plus there is upside here as a pass rusher. He had three sacks in 2025 and should push the pocket while Will Anderson Jr. and Danielle Hunter work the edges."
McDonald, who was considered a first-round talent and a top two defensive tackle prospect, comes with the production to warrant immediate reps. As the anchor of Ohio State's defensive line, the unanimous All-American finished with 65 tackles, nine tackles for loss, three sacks and two forced fumbles as the Buckeyes secured an undefeated regular season and College Football Playoff berth.
Q&A
Why is Kayden McDonald considered a top draft fit for the Texans in 2026?
Kayden McDonald is viewed as a top draft fit due to his ability to disrupt the run game and his potential as a pass rusher, which aligns well with DeMeco Ryans' defensive strategy.
What were Kayden McDonald's statistics at Ohio State in 2025?
In 2025, Kayden McDonald recorded 17 tackles at or behind the line of scrimmage and had three sacks, showcasing his impact on the field.
How does Kayden McDonald fit into DeMeco Ryans' defensive scheme?
McDonald fits into Ryans' scheme as a long-term one-tech, providing strength in the interior defense and complementing edge rushers like Will Anderson Jr. and Danielle Hunter.
