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Suwanee Today
By the People, for the People
Ohio State's Kayden McDonald Emerges as Top 2026 NFL Draft Prospect
Powerful defensive tackle could anchor Tampa Bay's defensive front
Published on Feb. 11, 2026
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Kayden McDonald, a junior defensive tackle at Ohio State, is emerging as a top prospect for the 2026 NFL Draft. The 6-3, 326-pound interior lineman has steadily developed into a dominant force, excelling in both run defense and interior pass rush. With his NFL-ready frame, disciplined play, and ability to plug rushing lanes, McDonald is projected as a potential first-round selection, particularly for teams like the Tampa Bay Buccaneers that prioritize building a strong defensive interior.
Why it matters
As the NFL continues to emphasize the importance of controlling the line of scrimmage, interior defensive linemen like McDonald have become increasingly valuable. His combination of size, strength, and technique makes him an ideal fit for defensive schemes that require powerful, gap-controlling tackles. Securing a player of McDonald's caliber could be a game-changer for teams looking to fortify their defensive fronts for the long term.
The details
McDonald entered Ohio State as a highly touted four-star recruit and has lived up to the hype, playing in 23 games over his first two seasons and emerging as a central figure in the Buckeyes' defensive line rotation. In 2025, he recorded 43 total pressures, 34 defensive stops, and an impressive 91.2 run defense grade, showcasing his ability to impact both the run and pass game. McDonald's disciplined play, low missed tackle rate, and interior pocket compression ability make him a highly coveted prospect for NFL teams.
- McDonald has played in 23 games over his first two seasons at Ohio State.
- In 2025, McDonald recorded 43 total pressures, 34 defensive stops, and a 91.2 run defense grade.
- McDonald is positioned to anchor the defensive tackle room for Ohio State in the 2025 season.
The players
Kayden McDonald
A junior interior defensive lineman at Ohio State, McDonald is a 6-3, 326-pound prospect with an NFL-ready frame and the potential to be a first-round selection in the 2026 NFL Draft.
Jason Licht
The general manager of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, who has consistently prioritized building a strong defensive front through the draft.
Todd Bowles
The head coach of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, whose defensive scheme is at its best when anchored by powerful interior defenders who can control the line of scrimmage.
What’s next
As McDonald continues to develop and anchor Ohio State's defensive line in the 2025 season, NFL teams will closely monitor his progress and evaluate his potential as a first-round draft pick in 2026.
The takeaway
Kayden McDonald's emergence as a dominant interior defensive lineman at Ohio State makes him a highly sought-after prospect for NFL teams, particularly those like the Tampa Bay Buccaneers that prioritize building a strong defensive front. His combination of size, strength, and technique could make him a foundational piece for a team's defensive line for years to come.
