Ohio State added its latest commitment on Monday, earning a verbal pledge from Suwanee (Ga.) North Gwinnett four-star defensive tackle Kayden McDonald (6-3, 310).
McDonald is the No. 293 overall prospect and No. 40 defensive lineman in 2023, and he chose Ohio State over Clemson – the perceived favorite for much of his recruitment – as well as Florida, Michigan and Oklahoma.
McDonald was offered by Ohio State last September, and there hadn’t been much news between McDonald and the Buckeyes until he came to Columbus for an official visit on Sept. 24 for Ohio State’s win over Wisconsin. He took visits to Oklahoma on Oct. 15 and a final visit to Clemson on Oct. 22 before ultimately selecting the Buckeyes.
He has 95 tackles – 62 for loss – last season with 20 sacks at North Gwinnett. Through eight games this year, McDonald had 46 tackles – 27 of which were for loss – and eight sacks. He also has a pass breakup and two recovered fumbles on the season.
“He possesses ideal size at 6-foot-3 and 300-pounds plus, possesses limited growth potential to add additional weight to frame,” said 247Sports recruiting analyst Cooper Petagna. “Displays good athletic ability as an interior defensive lineman, showing the ability to play multiple positions on the defensive line.
McDonald is the 21st commitment in Ohio State’s class, which checks in as the No. 4 class in the nation, according to 247Sports. The Buckeyes are still targeting several prospects in the class, including Bellflower (Calif.) St. John Bosco five-star defensive end Matayo Uiagalelei (6-5, 265), Tampa (Fla.) Berkeley Prep five-star defensive end Keon Keeley (6-6, 242) and Venice, Fla., five-star defensive end Damon Wilson (6-4, 230).
