Ohio State Buckeyes offensive lineman Donovan Jackson should easily be a top 50 prospect in the 2025 NFL draft. While guard is his natural position and his best fit in the pros, Jackson helped the Buckeyes in a pinch at left tackle this season when fellow 2025 prospect Josh Simmons dealt with injury.
Jackson, who allowed just two sacks in 2024, played left guard for two years prior his final year at Ohio State as well as the first five games before kicking out to left tackle. He’s an extremely athletic and powerful lineman whose seamless switch to tackle showed his football intelligence and ability to adapt. His versatility, power, and smarts make him a player to watch heading into the 2025 NFL Scouting Combine.
Position: G/T
Projected round: 1st-2nd
Height: 6’4
Weight: 320
Fit for Miami
Should Miami be lucky enough to see Jackson on the board at No. 48 overall, he could be an immediate starter at left guard. The Dolphins have several offensive linemen set to hit free agency, including three guards: Liam Eichenberg, Robert Jones, and Isaiah Wynn.
Jackson could be a fine interior pass-protector and instill a power-mindset in the running game.
Not only would Jackson be an investment in the line, but it could signala shift in ideology. His strength and powerful run blocking could be what Miami has been missing in short-yardage situations when they need conversions most.
Bottom line
Jackson has climbed to the late first round in recent mock drafts, which could put him out of the Dolphins’ reach. Miami is set to pick No. 13 overall in the first round, which could be called a bit too early for a guard. But Jackson could be gone by the time the Dolphins pick again at No. 48 overall.
If Grier elects to trade back, Jackson could be a fine pick in the latter half of the first round. If Grier goes another direction than the offensive line with his first selection, trading up to get Jackson early in the second round could also be a prudent move.
