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.

Offensive lineman Donovan Jackson followed wide receiver Emeka Egbuka as Ohio State's second pick in the first round of the NFL draft.