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The Ohio State Buckeyes had a loaded 2026 draft class, with Carnell Tate, Arvell Reese, Sonny Styles and Caleb Downs going off the board in the first 11 selections.
Buckeyes defensive tackle Kayden McDonald entered the pre-draft process overlooked when compared to fellow defenders Reese, Styles, and Downs, but he had an impressive season in 2025 in his own right, recording 65 tackles, nine tackles for loss, three sacks and two forced fumbles.
The Houston Texans took McDonald with the No. 36 pick. He believes he should have been the first Ohio State player taken in the draft at No. 1.
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“Everybody that went before me, that’s what fuels me,” McDonald said, via Aaron Wilson of KPRC 2. “There’s not one player better than me in this class. I’m gonna show it... Texans, they made it clear who the best defensive tackle was. It’s a blessing to be here. I’m ready for the opportunity.”
McDonald spent all three years of his college career at Ohio State, helping the program win a national championship in 2024. In 2025, he earned Big Ten Defensive Lineman of the Year, first-team All-Big Ten, and was named a unanimous All-American while helping the Buckeyes make the College Football Playoff.
McDonald isn't shy about his expectations as a rookie. He wants to win a Super Bowl and win the NFL Rookie of the Year award.
"Win a Super Bowl, [AP Defensive] Rookie of the Year, All-Pro first year," McDonald said. "These are realistic for me. I wrote those down, and I'm blessed to be here and I've got a chance."
The individual awards might sound outrageous for a player taken in the second round, but the Texans' defensive line will be set up for McDonald to have immediate success.
All-Pro defensive ends Will Anderson Jr. and Danielle Hunter will take the focus of opposing offensive lines, allowing for McDonald to have an opportunity to win his matchup on the interior.
For more on the Texans and the NFL, head to Newsweek Sports.