'He will make a few Pro Bowls': NFL coach raves about former Ohio State star who is going to have a big rookie season

The Ohio State Buckeyes had 14 players selected in the NFL Draft this past April, finishing just one short of tying the record of 15 set by Georgia in 2022.

Coming off a National Championship, the Buckeyes lost a significant number of veteran players who had returned for one final season.

One of those players — who chose to come back in 2024 rather than enter the draft early — is now receiving major praise before his rookie season.

NFL coach speaks highly about former Ohio State guard Donovan Jackson

One of the surprises of the first round was the Minnesota Vikings selecting guard Donovan Jackson with the 24th overall pick. While the Vikings were said to have liked Jackson throughout the draft process, few expected him to go on opening night. In a recent piece from ESPN, an anonymous NFL coordinator shared strong praise for the pick.

Vikings selecting OG Donovan Jackson with the 24th pick:

“You know why I really like this pick? He’s going to be a solid 10-year starter. Not sure he’s elite, but he will make a few Pro Bowls and be a really good player for a long time.” – NFL coordinator

Jackson started 31 games at left guard from 2022 through the first five games of 2024. After that, Ohio State needed him to move to left tackle when Josh Simmons went down with a serious injury. Not only did Jackson step in, but he excelled at the position. The Buckeyes’ run to the National Championship doesn’t happen without his job done there.

Now with the Vikings, Jackson is expected to start at left guard in Week 1, and he has the potential to become a multi-time Pro Bowler by the time his career is done.