PITTSBURGH (AP) — Two NFL hopefuls endured an agonizing three-hour wait in the draft’s green room at Acrisure Stadium Thursday evening, watching in their formal attire as opportunity passed them by.
Kayden McDonald and Colton Hood remained behind the scenes as 15 other draft candidates walked across the stage to embrace NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell after hearing their names called in the opening round.
Their moment would arrive Friday, and it wouldn’t take long once the second round began.
Houston selected McDonald, the powerful 6-foot-3, 326-pound Ohio State defensive lineman, as the fourth pick in round two. Hood, a defensive back from Tennessee, followed immediately after when the New York Giants made their choice.
McDonald decided to return to the green room Friday, but this time he swapped Thursday’s formal red carpet attire for something more relaxed. Dressed in a black short-sleeve button-down, white undershirt and chain, McDonald appeared overwhelmed as he walked somewhat hesitantly toward Goodell.
The commissioner and the new Texan shared an extended embrace, with McDonald’s tears clearly visible as emotion overcame him.
“It’s emotional man,” McDonald said. “I knew I’m supposed to be here. I’m just so blessed.”
McDonald expressed gratitude for joining Houston, a team that boasted the league’s top-ranked defense last season and dominated the Pittsburgh Steelers in their playoff opener.
When asked about his potential contribution to an already elite defensive unit, McDonald responded without hesitation.
“Disruptive, making it easier for the (defensive) end,” McDonald said. “We all go to work.”
Unlike McDonald, Hood chose not to return for Friday’s proceedings. When Goodell announced Hood’s selection, with former Giants star pass rusher Osi Umenyiora beside him, only Hood’s photograph in Tennessee uniform appeared on the venue’s video screen.
“Way to go Colton,” Goodell announced before stepping away for the following pick.
