Steelers 2026 scouting report: DT Kayden McDonald

[ASFN Admin]

After back-to-back seasons of defensive disappointment, the Pittsburgh Steelers could once again look to use their first round pick of the 2026 NFL Draft on defense.

Ohio State Buckeye Kayden McDonald, one of the top d-tackles of his draft class, could be the final piece in Pittsburgh's defensive-line rebuild.

Here is a look at McDonald's scouting report, which contains his bio, strengths, concerns, stats, and highlights.

Kayden McDonald, DT, Ohio State​

• Height: 6 feet 2 inches
• Weight: 326 pounds
• 40-yard dash: N/A (did not test)
• Projection: Mid-to-late first

Strengths​

• Rare blend of quick feet and insane power
• Amazing anchor
• Great pop on his hands
• Incredible against the run

Concerns​

• Gets too narrow in his base
• Effort on passing downs
• Below-average arm length

Stats​

• 2023: 1 combined tackle, 1.5 tackles for loss, zero sacks, zero forced fumbles
• 2024: 19 combined tackles, 1.5 tackles for loss, zero sacks, zero forced fumbles
• 2025: 65 combined tackles, nine tackles for loss, three sacks, two forced fumbles

Highlights​

It is very possible when the Bears are on the clock in the 1st round next April the highest graded player on their board is OSU NT Kayden McDonald

He isn't going to fix their pass rush problems but he can be a force against the run pic.twitter.com/Ya7jkAyfzz

— Steve Letizia (@CFCBears) December 7, 2025

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This article originally appeared on Steelers Wire: Steelers NFL Draft scouting report: Kayden McDonald, Ohio State

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