While first-round pick Donovan Jackson is expected to step into a major role as the Vikings’ starting left guard, Minnesota could also see contributions from other members of its 2025 draft class. One notable name is fifth-round defensive lineman Tyrion Ingram-Dawkins, who was recently recognized by ESPN’s Field Yates as one of 27 non-first-round picks who could make an early impact.
Though Yates’ top 10 list focused on Day 2 defenders, Ingram-Dawkins earned a spot in the “three more to watch” category. Minnesota made significant moves on the defensive line by signing veterans Jonathan Allen and Javon Hargrave, which limits a clear starting path for Ingram-Dawkins. However, Yates pointed to his versatility as a key asset. At Georgia, Ingram-Dawkins played multiple positions along the defensive front and made his presence felt with his length, explosiveness, and power—even if his sack totals weren’t high.
With defensive coordinator Brian Flores known for creative, disruptive schemes, Ingram-Dawkins could become a valuable, flexible piece in Minnesota
Versatility is a major reason the Vikings were drawn to Tyrion Ingram-Dawkins, who they grabbed with the first pick of the fifth round (No. 139 overall). He has the flexibility to line up both on the edge and inside, bringing the kind of raw athleticism and physical traits that could flourish under the guidance of defensive coordinator Brian Flores and the team’s D-line coaches. While the long-term vision is for Ingram-Dawkins to become a core piece of the defensive front, his explosiveness could earn him snaps as a rookie in passing situations, potentially rotating in with established veterans like Jonathan Allen, Javon Hargrave, Jonathan Greenard, and Andrew Van Ginkel. ESPN’s Field Yates called him a “chess piece” — a fitting description for a player who could give Flores schematic flexibility right away.
First-rounder Donovan Jackson is expected to step into a starting role at left guard immediately, but the Vikings could also get early returns from other members of their 2025 draft class. Among them, Ingram-Dawkins recently earned recognition from Yates as one of 27 non-Round 1 picks who could make an instant impact. Though Yates’ top 10 list was made up entirely of Day 2 players, Ingram-Dawkins landed in his “three more to watch” section — a nod to his potential value despite stiff competition for snaps on a newly retooled Minnesota defensive line. Though his college production wasn’t flashy, Ingram-Dawkins’ burst, power, and length made him a disruptive presence at Georgia, and his adaptability could make him a valuable rotational piece in Flores’ creative schemes.
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