Kayden McDonald Selected No. 36 Overall by the Houston Texans:
The Buckeyes aren’t slowing down.
After a dominant first round, Ohio State continued to make noise early on Day 2 as Kayden McDonald was selected No. 36 overall in the second round by the Houston Texans—adding another trench anchor to the growing list of Buckeyes heading to the league.
A Force in the Middle
McDonald built his reputation in Columbus as a disruptive interior defensive lineman—someone who doesn’t always show up fully in the box score but consistently impacts the game.
At his best, he controlled the line of scrimmage, absorbed double teams, and freed up linebackers to make plays. But he also flashed the ability to collapse pockets and create pressure up the middle—something NFL teams covet.
2025 Season Breakdown
McDonald’s 2025 season showcased his development into a complete interior presence:
- Total Tackles: 28
- Tackles for Loss: 6.5
- Sacks: 3.0
- QB Pressures: 18+
- Games Played: 13
While those numbers don’t jump off the page compared to skill positions, they tell the story of a defensive tackle doing his job at a high level—winning leverage, controlling gaps, and creating chaos inside.
Career Production at Ohio State
Over his Buckeye career, McDonald steadily grew into a key piece of the defensive front:
- Career Tackles: 60+
- TFLs: 12+
- Sacks: 5+
- Consistent rotational and starting presence on elite defenses
His impact often went beyond stats—anchoring one of the most talented defensive units in college football.
What the Texans Are Getting
Houston is adding a foundational piece to its defensive front.
McDonald brings:
- Elite size and strength at the point of attack
- Run-stuffing ability and gap discipline
- Interior pass rush upside
- High motor and physical play style
- Developmental ceiling as a three-down defensive tackle
He fits exactly what NFL teams look for in a modern interior lineman—someone who can stop the run and push the pocket.
Another Buckeye in the League
From first-round stars to Day 2 difference-makers, Ohio State continues to produce NFL talent at every level.
Kayden McDonald may not have gone in the top 10—but don’t be surprised if he ends up being one of the most impactful players from this class.
Because if there’s one thing we’ve learned…
Buckeyes translate.