🏈 Official: Minnesota Vikings’ 2025 Starting Lineup Announced — Rookie Donovan Jackson Takes Controversial Spot

Published: May 20, 2025
By: [Your Name], NFL Insider
Minneapolis, Minnesota

The Minnesota Vikings have officially announced their starting lineup for the 2025 NFL season, and it’s already sparking conversation across the league. The most notable headline? Rookie offensive lineman Donovan Jackson has earned a starting spot on the offensive line, a move that’s being met with both praise and skepticism from fans and analysts alike.

🟣 Donovan Jackson Named Starting Left Guard

Jackson, a first-round pick out of Ohio State, was considered one of the most technically sound interior linemen in the 2025 NFL Draft. Still, few expected him to leapfrog veterans so quickly into the starting lineup.

“Donovan has shown exceptional poise, physicality, and football IQ throughout OTAs and rookie minicamp,” said Head Coach Kevin O’Connell. “We’re confident in his ability to help anchor our line from Day 1.”

His promotion, however, has caused a stir among some fans who expected a more seasoned player like Blake Brandel or Ed Ingram to hold the spot while Jackson adjusted to NFL speed.

🟣 Vikings 2025 Starting Lineup (Offense)

• QB: J.J. McCarthy

• RB: Aaron Jones

• WR1: Justin Jefferson

• WR2: Jordan Addison

• WR3 (Slot): Tai Felton (R)

• TE: T.J. Hockenson

• LT: Christian Darrisaw

• LG: Donovan Jackson (R)

• C: Ryan Kelly

• RG: Ed Ingram

• RT: Brian O’Neill

🟣 Defensive Starters

• DE: Jonathan Allen

• DT: Javon Hargrave

• EDGE: Danielle Hunter

• LBs: Ivan Pace Jr., Kobe King (R)

• CBs: Byron Murphy Jr., Isaiah Rodgers

• S: Harrison Smith, Camryn Bynum

• NB (Nickel): Tavierre Thomas

⚠️ Public Reaction

Social media has been buzzing since the announcement. Some fans are thrilled by the bold move:

“If he’s ready, let him play. Protect J.J. McCarthy and let’s go!” — @SkolVikingsFan

Others remain cautious:

“You don’t throw a rookie into the trenches unless he’s a surefire beast. Hope he’s up to it.” — @PurplePride92

🔮 What’s Next?

With preseason games approaching, all eyes will be on Jackson to prove he belongs. His performance could set the tone for a Vikings team filled with both youthful promise and playoff expectations.