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'Solid 10 year starter' NFL assistant coach believes Vikings draft pick is going to be good for a long time

Originally posted on A to Z Sports | By Tyler Forness | Last updated Jun 18, 2025 5:48 PM ET

The Minnesota Vikings made waves this year during the offseason when they completely revamped the offensive line. After seeing things crater in the final two games of the season, head coach Kevin O'Connell didn't mince his words when it came to fixing the issue.

"We've got to find a way to solidify the interior of the pocket. ... There could be a 1,000 excuses made, but for me, it's the foundation of the interior of the pocket that we're going to have to take a long look at."

Donovan Jackson will be a solid 10 year starter

The free agency signings made a lot of sense for the Vikings. Ryan Kelly and Will Fries both coming over from the Indianapolis Colts will be a major upgrade over Garrett Bradbury and Dalton Risner/Ed Ingram. It's the other guard spot opposite of Fries that is getting a lot of attention.

Donovan Jackson was somewhat of a surprise selection, not in terms of position, but player. He was only sent to the Vikings nine times in 656 mock drafts, partially due to the wildness of what the draft class was.

One NFL coordinator went on record with ESPN and believes that Jackson is going to be a solid pro for a long time.

"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."

That's an important aspect here. The Vikings drafted a high floor player rather than someone who is going to have tremendous upside. Was that a smart move? Only time will tell there, but it puts the Vikings into a really good place going into the season. If Jackson takes that step, it's going to be huge for the Vikings and J.J. McCarthy.

This article first appeared on A to Z Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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