Kayden McDonald, an All-American Ohio State defensive tackle, declared for the 2026 NFL Draft. He is the fourth Ohio State junior football player to declare for the 2026 National Football League draft.
Kayden McDonald Is a Big Loss For Ohio State
McDonald is a junior defensive tackle for the Ohio State Buckeyes. He is a run-stuffing defensive tackle who weighs 326 pounds and stands 6-foot-3. He was an All-American in the 2025 season and was expected to come back for his senior season. The reason for the expectation was that he waited patiently to start, and he made the most of his opportunity. His declaration for the National Football League Draft in 2026 is surprising.
Kayden McDonald’s Salary
McDonald made hundreds of thousands in Name, Image, and Likeness money from Ohio State. He will make at least that much in the National Football League. That said, this move is not about making money; this move is about a football player realizing his dream. He is a first-day draft player, and he has an outside shot of making the first round.
McDonald Waits His Turn
Important to the story is the fact that he patiently waited behind players the last two seasons. His patience is held out as an example of loyalty in the transfer portal era. After waiting behind Ty Hamilton and Tyleik Williams for the last two seasons, McDonald emerged as one of the nation’s best interior defenders in 2025.
He had 65 tackles, 9 tackles for loss, and 3 sacks from the nose guard position. Because of his having to wait his turn, many thought he would return for his senior season.
NFL Draft Strategy
Many teams need run-stuffing defensive tackles, so McDonald is likely in good shape. The key is to analyze the draft order and see where a player fits in. There is no doubt that he and his representatives are looking at this tonight.
What Happens If Kayden McDonald Is Drafted
McDonald will likely get drafted on the first day of the 2026 National Football League Draft, if not in the first round. Most teams would like a one-technique defensive tackle who can stuff the run. Because his specialty is in high demand, he should be fine. It will be nice to see him realize his dream and play in the league.
Frequently Asked Questions
There are four early declarees from the Ohio State football team, three on defense. McDonald is the lowest-rated of the four Ohio State declares, but his skill set is in demand among National Football League teams. The Jets have a mid-first-round draft pick and would be wise to use that pick on this run-stuffer.
Conclusion
Surprisingly, McDonald declared for the draft. Buckeyes fans expected him to play in college again in 2026. He is the fourth Buckeye with remaining eligibility to declare for the 2026 NFL Draft, joining Caleb Downs, Carnell Tate, and Arvell Reese. All four of them are projected as potential first-round picks in this year’s draft.
