Welcome to SKOL Search!
This series will be your guide to the 2024 draft class. From scouting reports to mock drafts and exploring different scenarios, we will be covering the NFL draft and the future of the Minnesota Vikings from all angles.
The focus of the draft class in this space will be on the Vikings’ major needs at quarterback, running back, defensive line and edge rusher. We will also focus on wide receiver since it’s a loaded class and an increased chance to get a Stefon Diggs-type steal in the later rounds.
The Vikings are slated to have 9 picks going into the NFL draft and they need to make the most out of them.
Background
McKinnley Jackson
- Texas A&M
- Height-6015
- Weight-331 lbs
- Fourth-year senior
- 4-Star recruit per 247 Sports
- Stats: 91 tackles, 43 solo, 15.5 tackles for loss, 7.5 sacks, 2 passes defended, 1 forced fumble, 2 fumble recoveries
- Games watched: Arkansas 2023, Alabama 2023, Tennessee 2023, Ole Miss 2023
Strengths
Jackson plays a lot of 0T/1T and has some real pass-rush juice. Is really quick and explosive through the gaps and can get skinny to penetrate.
Does a really good job sensing and handling double teams. Displays great technique and balance when handling them and drops down to a knee to regain the leverage advantage.
Has an incredibly hot motor. Keeps his feet moving and it helps him drive forward.
Is a twiched-up pass rusher. Displays multiple moves with a very quick get off the ball for his size. Can attack from multiple interior alignments as well.
Weaknesses
Jackson has a far from developed pass rush plan. Does a really good job shooting gaps and pushing the pocket but if he gets stonewalled, Jackson has no idea what to do. Counters aren’t a part of this game yet.
Plays with a higher pad level than you would expect. Needs to lower his pad level so he can win leverage battles more consistently.
Would like to see better stack and shed ability. He can shed blockers but often isn’t quick enough to be able to get to the ball carrier.
Overview
| Quickness/Penetration | 17.6/20 |
| Power | 7.8/10 |
| Pass Rush Moves | 8.2/10 |
| Counters | 7.1/10 |
| Leverage | 7.4/10 |
| Tackling | 8.0/10 |
| Size/Length | 8.6/10 |
| Run Defense | 8.0/10 |
| Awareness | 8.1/10 |
| Grade | 80.2/100 Second Round |
Jackson is built like a nose tackle but plays like a 3T. If he truly wants to succeed at the next level, Jackson is going to need to play with better pad level and develop some counter moves to help him out in the pass rush.
