While Kayden McDonald’s technique remains a work in progress, he displays a unique ability to get himself out of bad positions and dominate against the run thanks to his rare combination of size (6’3″, 326 lbs), strength and athleticism.
McDonald went to Ohio State as a 4-star recruit in the 2023 class and saw the field sparingly as a true freshman. In Year 2, he was stuck behind Tyleik Williams, who later became a first-round draft pick, but contributed as part of the Buckeyes’ defensive line rotation, collecting 19 tackles, 1.5 for loss and a pass defended in 16 games.
During the 2025 campaign, the Georgia native experienced breakout season, taking command of the starting nose tackle job and recording 47 tackles, eight TFLs, three sacks and two forced fumbles.
Matt Holder has been a part of B/R’s Scouting Department for four seasons. He also writes about the Las Vegas Raiders and NFL draft for SB Nation’s Silver and Black Pride, and co-hosts a YouTube Channel, Tape Don’t Lie, providing film breakdowns and more draft prospect analysis.
