Buckeyes Face Challenge Replacing Nose Tackle Kayden McDonald

Ohio State is looking to replace the disruptive interior presence of Kayden McDonald, who is entering the 2026 NFL Draft. McDonald was a key defensive piece, recording 65 tackles and nine tackles for loss in 2025. The coaching staff may utilize a group approach to fill the void, with UCF transfer John Walker, Will Smith Jr., and James Smith emerging as primary candidates to compete for snaps in the middle of the defensive line during the upcoming season.