7 prospects for the Vikings to watch on Day 2 at the 2020 Combine
By Dean Jones
Austin Jackson – OT (USC)
Former USC offensive tackle Austin Jackson is a supremely athletic prospect who is going to be a standout performer during drills at this year’s NFL Scouting Combine.
He demonstrates tremendous athleticism that is matched by his quick footwork. Jackson has the potential to be an NFL starter from day one and he is someone who would instantly improve the Vikings’ offensive line.
Although Jackson is a little raw and will need coaching up, he possesses all the tools normally associated with a successful left tackle in the NFL. At 6-foot-6 and 310 pounds, he is the perfect size and he has a quickness off the block that defies a man of his scope.
Another massive positive for Jackson is the level of competition he has come up against during his college career. He has coped very well with the demands of taking on some of the most feared pass-rushers from the college level and this can make a transition to the pros.
Jackson’s upside is enormous and it could see him selected late in the first or early in the second round of this year’s NFL Draft. He is a high-character individual who is going to interview well and he seems like a perfect fit for Minnesota and the direction they are trying to go.
Putting him at left tackle and moving Reilly Reiff to the guard spot (if he sticks around) would immediately solidify the blindside of Vikings quarterback Kirk Cousins, providing Jackson is not hung out to dry against elite pass-rushers during the early stages of his career.