After a solid sophomore campaign, Ohio State defensive tackle Kayden McDonald is setting his sights on becoming a key leader and impact player for the Buckeyes in 2025.
McDonald was one of Ohio State’s most reliable rotational defensive linemen in 2024, coming off the bench to contribute 19 tackles, 1.5 tackles for loss, a quarterback hit, and a pass breakup in 16 games. Though his snaps were limited, he made the most of them—none bigger than his clutch stop in Ohio State’s hard-fought win over Penn State.
“That Penn State game was definitely my favorite moment,” McDonald recalled. “Being able to step up and help my team when they needed me most—that’s what it’s all about. When your number is called, you have to be ready.”
Ohio State head coach Ryan Day also took notice of McDonald’s growing impact.
“K-Mac really stepped up for us,” Day said. “We’re looking for him to take on a bigger role next season, and if he keeps progressing, we believe he can be a major piece of our defensive front.”
Now entering his third year with the Buckeyes, McDonald is focused on breaking into the starting lineup. He and Eddrick Houston are early favorites to fill the defensive tackle spots, assuming Ohio State sticks with its four-lineman front.
Beyond earning a starting job, McDonald has another goal—becoming a leader on the defensive line and for the team as a whole.
“I want to be that guy for my teammates,” he said. “I want to set the tone for the D-line and the whole defense. I know I have what it takes, so I’m going to keep grinding this offseason to get better every day.”
A big part of that development will be refining his pass-rushing skills and making more game-changing plays in 2025. He’s also excited about playing alongside teammates Kenyatta Jackson Jr. and Caden Curry, believing they’ve flown under the radar and are ready to shine next season.
If everything goes according to plan, McDonald and his fellow linemen could form the next dominant defensive front at Ohio State—and possibly punch their tickets to the NFL.
“That’s the dream,” McDonald said. “But for now, I’m focused on taking it one day at a time and getting better with my brothers. We’re coming for it all next season.”
