The Vikings were one of the greatest expenses during the offseason because they added a pair of differences of difference on each side of the trenches. Offensively, they added the former teammates of the Colts Ryan Kelley (Center) and Will Fries (right guard). On the other side, they inked the old defensive platform outside competition of Washington Jonathan Allen to go with the old Eagle and the 49er Javon Hargrave. The two sides of the ball are immediately larger, better and much more intimidating.
But even after throwing all this money into the trenches, could the Vikings end up further strengthening the melee line?
In the latest simulation project for two laps from Mel Kiper, the Vikings used the first of their four draft choices in total on the Ohio Donovan Jackson state goalkeeper to apparently replace the Blake Brandel left guard.
Here is what Kiper had to say about the choice:
“Minnesota sign guard Will and in the center Ryan Kelly Far from the colts. It is a great improvement in the interior offensive line. Let’s go further. Jackson would replace Blake Brandel In the other location of the guard, and it has versatility to kick outside if necessary. He did it last season when Josh Simmons obtained hurt For Ohio State. This seems relevant given the left tackle Christian Darrisaw is recovered from a left knee injury. Jackson is an interior blocker Plug-And-Play with great agility and technical; He granted four bags on 40 career departures. »»
Jackson is a well -constructed and versatile blocker with a multitude of experience by playing for one of the country’s best programs. As Kiper mentioned, he was able to maintain the blind side after Josh Simmons’ injury and not only succeed individually, but help his team win the CFP 2024 national championship.
At 6’4 and 315, it is a prototypical guard in the modern NFL with thick limbs, large hands and athletics above average to find success in zone and gap regimes. Jackson is a fun watch due to the way he moves to his size. He is fluid in his movements with little effort wasted in his opponents. According to Lance Zierlein de NFL.com, Jackson has the skills necessary to accomplish all tasks in an outdoor zone scheme. It looks like an offensive line of the Vikings perfect for me.
The best part of Jackson, in my opinion? He is an active researcher for additional work and he likes to finish his opponents in dirt. There is nothing like a line player who wants to physically impose his will after the game. He is a tone content and his teammates will see him and will naturally join him. As a recruit, he will integrate perfectly into any nfl locker room, but something tells me that he will be particularly adored here in Minnesota.
