NFL Draft profile and projection for defensive tackle Kayden McDonald

Ohio State's defensive line was elite this past year, though not quite up to the standard of the previous few. Even so, it was chock full of NFL players. Of course, not all of those players are coming out of college to go to the NFL Draft this year. The highest-profile of those who are is Kayden McDonald. Unlike fellow lineman Kenyatta Jackson, who is choosing to stay for one more year of college, McDonald is leaving after just three. And he's got a pretty good draft grade to go do it.

Kayden McDonald, Defensive tackle

Ohio State Buckeyes defensive tackle Kayden McDonald (98) celebrates during the first half of the Big Ten Conference championship game against the Indiana Hoosiers at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis on Dec. 6, 2025.

Draft Projection: Round 1-2

McDonald played in all 16 games for Ohio State this past year, showing his versatility and conditioning. He also showed the ability, when necessary, to move over from the tackle position, though that's clearly where he's the most comfortable.

McDonald is a force in the run stop, one of the best in the country. His ability to shed blocks and single-handedly take down an opponent's rushing game makes him a strong draft pick. It's why he's a probable first rounder. However, McDonald does have some weaknesses in pass defenses. He has a great first step, but hasn't shown the ability against elite blockers to work his way through blocks and get after the quarterback. That's certainly something he can (and probably will) develop in his NFL career, but it does put a bit of a ceiling on where he'll go in the NFL Draft this year, and could let him slide into the second round.