Texans Pick Ohio State DT Kayden McDonald at No. 36

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania – Ohio State defensive tackle Kayden McDonald, a consensus All-American, was selected by the Houston Texans with the 36th overall pick in the second round of the NFL Draft on Friday night, capping an emotional wait after he remained undrafted in the first round the previous evening.

McDonald, a 6-foot-2, 326-pound standout from his final college season, had entered the draft as a projected early selection following a breakout year in which he recorded 65 tackles, nine for loss, and three sacks while earning unanimous All-American honors and Big Ten Defensive Lineman of the Year accolades. Attendees in the green room watched 15 peers go in the first round, leaving McDonald as the lone player remaining when it concluded. He returned for the second round and did not wait long, as the Texans traded with the Las Vegas Raiders to move up two spots from the 38th pick to secure him. The Raiders then chose Arizona safety Treydan Stukes at No. 38.

Tears streamed down McDonald's face as he hugged his family and made the walk to the stage, pausing to tap the Texans' display on the wall. He shared a lengthy embrace with NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell before speaking...