Kayden McDonald overcome with emotion in viral crying moment after Texans draft pick

It was worth the wait.

Kayden McDonald would never want to relive the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft — in which he was one of only two players in the green room who wasn’t selected Thursday night — but the Ohio State defensive tackle’s decision to return to the scene in Pittsburgh produced one of the best moments of the second round.

McDonald, who was talked into returning by NFL commissioner Roger Goodell, burst into tears when he was taken by the Texans with the 36th overall pick, then continued crying tears of joy and disbelief as he shared a lengthy hug with Goodell on stage, and conducted his interview with ESPN.

Kayden McDonald, right, reacts with NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell after being chosen by the Houston Texans with the 36th overall pick during the second round of the NFL football draft, Friday, April 24, 2026. AP

“It’s emotional,” McDonald said. “I know I’m supposed to be here. I’m just so blessed, I’m just so thankful … Where I came from and now I’m here, it’s a blessing.”

McDonald was part of Ohio State’s 2024 national title team, but only started one season for the Buckeyes, recording three sacks, 11 tackles for a loss, two forced fumbles and three passes defended, while being named the Big Ten Defensive Lineman of the Year.

Kayden McDonald reacts after being chosen by the Houston Texans with the 36th overall pick during the second round of the NFL football draft, Friday, April 24, 2026, in Pittsburgh. AP

Houston’s addition of McDonald only enhances what was already one of the NFL’s best defenses last season.

“We gonna work,” McDonald said. “I’m ready.”