Should the Chargers select Kayden McDonald?
The Los Angeles Chargers have been frequently mocked for an offensive lineman, but Fox Sports Analyst Ben Arthur took a different avenue and selected Ohio State defensive tackle Kayden McDonald. While he’s still developing as a pass rusher, his prowess as a run defender makes him an impactful day-one presence from the interior. Although unconventional, McDonald would be a perfect addition and would help bolster an already strong unit.
“The Chargers would love to get offensive line help here, but a blue-chip defensive tackle could be viewed as more valuable than the fifth- or sixth-best O-lineman in the back half of the first round,” Arthur wrote. “A unanimous first-team All-American, McDonald had 65 tackles (nine for loss), three sacks and two forced fumbles en route to being named the Big Ten Defensive Lineman of the Year.”
As Arthur alludes to, it’s more important that the Chargers find an impactful player than take a chance on a lower-tier offensive lineman. They must take a game-wrecker like McDonald if he’s available at pick 22.
The Chargers already have an impressive run defense, ranking eighth in the league, giving up 105.4 yards per game. However, it can still use improvement as mitigating the opposition's rushing attack makes them one-dimensional and puts all the pressure on the quarterback’s shoulders, thus giving the defense a big advantage.
This is where McDonald would have the biggest impact. The six-foot-two, 326-pound player has staggering power and uses it to dominate opposing linemen. His anchor is impeccable, as it’s nearly impossible to move him. This forces offenses to double-team him, or else he’s wrecking the play. He efficiently stacks and sheds and can free himself from blocks without breaking a sweat.
McDonald is an elite competitor. He doesn’t back down from a matchup and always plays through the whistle. It’s not uncommon for McDonald to be seen chasing down an opposing running back if they reach the second level. While he won’t always make the play, he opens the door for his teammates to.
The primary issue with McDonald is his inability to produce as a pass rusher. He’s not an explosive athlete, which helps the lineman stay in position. Additionally, he doesn’t have any developed moves. This causes him to rely solely on bull rushing, meaning he's ineffective if a lineman has a good anchor. While he still has the potential to develop, he can’t be counted on early in his career.
Regardless, McDonald remains an elite prospect who would be an ideal selection for the Chargers in round one. His prowess against the run would help bolster their defensive line and create a shutdown defensive line on early downs.