The selflessness that Jackson displayed is partially what won over the Vikings. Though they loved the skill set he possessed within his 6-foot-4, 315-pound frame. They also saw him as a perfect fit for their culture.

Donovan Jackson, who was the nation’s top-rated guard in the 2021 recruiting class, is the first opening-round guard drafted by the Vikings in nearly 40 years.

Here’s where Ohio State football’s Donovan Jackson landed in the 2025 NFL Draft, along with a look back at his best moment with the Buckeyes.