Vikings pad OL with Donovan Jackson selection

The Minnesota Vikings selected Ohio State offensive lineman Donovan Jackson in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft, 24th overall.

Minnesota gave up 49 sacks last season, with the offensive line struggling down the stretch. Former Vikings quarterback Sam Darnold was sacked nine times in the team's wild-card loss to the Los Angeles Rams.

Pre-draft profile

Jackson was a key contributor to Ohio State's national title team this past campaign. He's a well-rounded player in the run game, showing the ability to create movement off the ball as a drive-blocker or efficiently work up to the second level. His play strength also shows up in the pass game, where he holds his ground well against power. Jackson may not have the lateral quickness to match top-tier finesse rushers, and he could improve his hand usage to more consistently capitalize on his length. But he's got the skill set to be a Day 1 starter at guard. The versatility he showed by kicking out to left tackle after Josh Simmons' injury and holding his own for the stretch run will only give him more value looking ahead to the NFL.