6 offensive tackles the Minnesota Vikings could draft in 2020
By Dean Jones
Austin Jackson (USC)
Measurements:
- Height: 6-foot-5 | Weight: 322 pounds
One way the Minnesota Vikings could go is with former USC standout Austin Jackson. The prospect has everything a team is looking for in an offensive lineman and he is expected to go within the first two rounds of the 2020 NFL Draft.
Jackson is extremely athletic for someone of his size. His foot movement is exemplary and he has the power to hold the point of contact with oncoming pass-rushers.
He has the speed and presence to get to the second level with no difficulty at all, which is another useful asset that is set to make an easy transition to the pros. Jackson is an adept run blocker and can open up gaps when needed.
The player is well balanced and is able to counteract most moves put on him by defenders looking to get to the quarterback. There are some areas of his game that need improvement. Most notably his recovery ability when he looks beaten on any given down.
His hand placement is also something that needs coaching up. But this is something that normally improves with experience and he looks to be a solid tackle that the Vikings would need to take with either the 22nd or 25th pick in order to acquire his services.
Putting him at right tackle would be highly beneficial during the early stages of his professional development. This would allow stud blocker Brian O’Neill to move into the left tackle spot in the event a trade for Trent Williams doesn’t materialize.