Less than a week before the start of the 2026 NFL Draft, the New York Giants made the surprising decision to trade one of their best players, sending Dexter Lawrence to the Cincinnati Bengals in exchange for the 10th overall pick. While the Giants got a strong return for their three-time Pro Bowl defensive tackle, his departure left a huge hole in the middle of John Harbaugh's defense.
What was the Giants' plan to replace the DT?
According to NFL insider Tony Pauline of Essential Sports, the Giants wanted to take Ohio State defensive tackle Kayden McDonald "at the top of Round 2" with the 37th overall pick. Nevertheless, the Houston Texans selected McDonald with the 36th pick, just one spot ahead of the Giants.
"The team wanted running back Kayden McDonald at the top of Round 2, but chose cornerback Colton Hood after the Houston Texans passed on him to steal the Ohio State defensive tackle pick."
Tony Pauline on the New York Giants
As mentioned, once McDonald left, the Giants turned to Tennessee cornerback Colton Hood, who some viewed as a potential first-round pick like McDonald. Still, the Giants did not get back on the defensive line until selecting Auburn's Bobby Jamison-Travis with the 186th overall pick.
Thus, the Giants may still be looking to add a potential starting defensive tackle before the 2026 season begins. They've already brought in DJ Reeder for the tour, and it's possible he'll be part of the solution going forward, but McDonald might be the better option long-term.
RELATED: A bold prediction for every player in the New York Giants' 2026 draft class
