Todd McShay’s Dexter Lawrence comp for ex-Ohio State star is terrifying for rest of NFL

The Houston Texans showed off their dominant defense on Thursday night. Houston’s defense made multiple big plays against Las Vegas despite losing 22-20. One rookie Texans defender received a huge compliment after making one big play during the team’s second preseason game of the year.

NFL Draft analyst Todd McShay dropped some heavy praise on Texans rookie Kayden McDonald during Thursday’s preseason game. He even compared McDonald to one of the league’s best defensive tackles.

“Kayden has so much more pass rushing upside than we saw at Ohio State. I can’t wait to see his career arc in the NFL — think Dexter Lawrence,” McShay posted on social media on Thursday.

McShay posted that comment in reply to a video of McDonald sacking Fernando Mendoza during the second quarter. McDonald burst through the middle of the o-line and dropped Mendoza while the quarterback attempted to get away.

That play was the only splash play that McDonald made all night, but it was quite impressive. As McShay highlighted, it suggests that big things could be in McDonald’s future.

The Texans drafted McDonald early in the second round of the 2026 NFL Draft. He entered the league known for his elite run defending ability, including some truly impressive tackle for loss production from an interior defender. As such, NFL.com’s Lance Zierlein compared him to veteran nose tackle DJ Reader.

If McDonald does have untapped potential as a pass rusher, then his upside could be absolutely through the roof. He could even have a career trajectory similar to Lawrence if he reaches his full potential.

McDonald was not the only Texans rookie defender to make a big play, either. Linebacker Wade Woodaz logged an 80-yard interception return for a touchdowns against Mendoza during the first quarter.

Head coach Demeco Ryans must be thrilled to see his rookie defenders balling out in the preseason. Perhaps they will help Houston make another deep playoff run this season.

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