NBARecap
Celtics-76ers takeaways: Jayson Tatum delivers dagger 3, Boston takes back control of series
Jayson Tatum's clutch 3-pointer leads Celtics to victory over 76ers, taking a 2-1 series lead.
Yahoo Sports1 min read
Sports
The Texans drafted a tone-setting DT with Kayden McDonald out of Ohio State
TL;DR
The Texans selected defensive tackle Kayden McDonald from Ohio State, acquiring first-round talent in the second round. McDonald was a standout player, earning multiple accolades during his college career.
Key points
- Texans drafted Kayden McDonald from Ohio State
- McDonald was a second-round pick with first-round talent
- He earned multiple accolades during his college career
Kayden McDonaldTexansOhio State Buckeyes
Dec 6, 2025; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes defensive lineman Kayden McDonald (98) reacts before the 2025 Big Ten championship game against the Indiana Hoosiers at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images | Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images
The Texans got first-round talent with a second-round pick in Kayden McDonald, the defensive tackle out of Ohio State. Here’s everything you need to know about the former Buckeye.
Stats & Accolades
- 2023: (4 games played), one tackle, .5 tackles for loss, pass defended
- 2024: (16 games played), 19 total tackles, 1.5 tackles for loss, pass defended, CFP National Champion
- 2025: (14 games played, 14 starts), 65 total tackles, nine tackles for loss, three sacks, pass defended, two forced fumbles, fumble recovery, Unanimous All-American, Big 10 Defensive Lineman of the Year, First-Team All-Big 10
What the Texans are getting:
McDonald was one of the nation’s biggest breakout stars after going from backup his first two collegiate seasons to a unanimous All-American as a junior in 2025. The massive interior defender showed a knack for the big play, stuffing the stat sheet across the board. He has the chance to be a tone-setter for a defense with the way he’s able to shock offensive linemen with his powerful punch. McDonald is the exact player a team should covet if their philosophy centers around winning at the point of attack.
Strengths
- Productive nose tackle who blew up in his first season as a full-time starter
- Exhibits brute strength through a massive pop with hands on first contact
- Moves well in a phone booth
- Strong play recognition combined with elite leverage to disrupt and dismantle opposing run games
Q&A
What were Kayden McDonald's college stats at Ohio State?
In his final season, Kayden McDonald recorded 65 total tackles, nine tackles for loss, and three sacks.
What honors did Kayden McDonald receive during his college career?
He was named Unanimous All-American, Big 10 Defensive Lineman of the Year, and First-Team All-Big 10.
Why did the Texans draft Kayden McDonald?
The Texans drafted McDonald to bolster their defensive line, believing he possesses first-round talent despite being selected in the second round.