On Thursday, April 24 the Minnesota Vikings were in search of the next great player to help the franchise moving forward. The 2025 NFL Draft is being held at Lambeau Field in Green Bay, Wisconsin.
With the No. 24 pick Minnesota was weighing who they should take… Many thought they would draft a safety to be mentored by future Hall of Famer Harrison Smith, before he hangs up his pads. Others thought cornerback, running back, or offensive lineman.
When the 24th pick was submitted, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell announced that the Vikings would continue to bolster their offensive line with the addition of Ohio State offensive lineman, Donovan Jackson. Minnesota made it clear that they were serious about improving the o-line this offseason when they signed Pro Bowl caliber linemen in C Ryan Kelly and G Will Fries.
Welcome to your new home, @D_jack78!
📺: NFL Draft on ABC, NFL Network and ESPN April 24-26 pic.twitter.com/H41VPjMDaT
— Minnesota Vikings (@Vikings) April 25, 2025
During his time in college at Ohio State, Jackson started in 39 games for the Buckeyes. He made 30 starts at left guard and nine starts at left tackle. During the 2024 season he moved from left guard to left tackle out of necessity with an injury on the line. Jackson held his own at the blind side position and that versatility helped him drive up draft boards, ultimately landing him in purple and gold.
.@D_jack78's night got a lot better when he got that life-changing call from Minnesota.
— Minnesota Vikings (@Vikings) April 25, 2025
Per ESPN’s draft analysis, Jackson is the fourth ranked offensive guard, 55th ranked overall prospect, and is an 84 grade. His 6’4 and 315 pound frame will help with the possibility of slotting in at multiple offensive line positions.
Live: OL Donovan Jackson
📺: NFL Draft on ABC, ESPN and NFL Network April 25-26
— Minnesota Vikings (@Vikings) April 25, 2025
As of right now Jackson is projected to be Minnesota’s starting left guard.
Projected starting offensive line:
LT Christian Darrisaw, LG Donovan Jackson, C Ryan Kelly, RG Will Fries, RT Brian O’Neill
The NFL Draft will continue with the second and third rounds on Friday night beginning at 6 p.m. on ESPN/ABC. Round four-seven will take place on Saturday beginning at 11 a.m. on ESPN/ABC.
Vikings remaining 2025 Draft picks:
- Round Three: 97th overall (Compensatory)
- Round Five: 139th overall (From Cleveland)
- Round Six: 187th overall (From San Francisco)
