The Minnesota Vikings entered the 2025 draft with just four picks, the fewest in the league. After Day 1, the Vikings find themselves in a similar situation, possibly having passed on trade opportunities to select former Ohio State guard Donovan Jackson.
A three-year starter at Ohio State, Jackson played a key role in helping the Buckeyes secure the College Football Playoff National Championship.
His addition could spell trouble for starting left guard Blake Brandel, who started all 17 games in 2024.
Jackson has experience at both left guard and left tackle during his college career. The Vikings also signed right guard Will Fries to a five-year, $87.7 million deal this offseason. Brandel, drafted in the sixth round of 2020, is entering the second year of a three-year, $9.5 million contract.
There’s no guaranteed money left in Brandel’s deal after the 2025 season, and the Vikings could release him post-June 1, saving $3.5 million while incurring just $666,668 in dead money. Brandel earned the lowest grade among returning Vikings offensive linemen in 2024, according to Pro Football Focus.
In his April 9 draft guide, The Athletic’s Dane Brugler ranked Jackson as the No. 6 offensive tackle and No. 48 overall prospect. Spotrac estimates Jackson will earn $17.1 million over four years on his rookie contract with the Vikings as the No. 24 overall pick.
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