Vikings Host Run-Stopping Nose Tackle Darrell Jackson Jr. for 30-Visit

The Florida State defensive lineman is a solid run-stopper but needs to improve his pass-rushing skills.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 5:19pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A fragmented, geometric painting depicting a football defensive line, with sharp planes of deep purple, forest green, and burnt orange colliding to create a sense of raw power and intensity on the line of scrimmage.A cubist interpretation of the Vikings' defensive line highlights the need for a dominant nose tackle to anchor the interior.Tallahassee Today

The Minnesota Vikings are looking to address their interior defensive line depth in the upcoming draft, particularly at the nose tackle position. They recently hosted Florida State defensive tackle Darrell Jackson Jr. for a 30-visit, as he is a solid run-stopping prospect but needs to improve his pass-rushing abilities.

Why it matters

The Vikings parted ways with veteran Pro Bowlers Javon Hargrave and Jonathan Allen, leaving them with a need at the nose tackle position. Jackson could be a potential solution, but he will need to continue developing his pass-rushing skills to become an every-down defender.

The details

Jackson recently slimmed down to 315 pounds after previously playing at 337 pounds in 2025, hoping to improve his stamina, quickness, and pass-rushing ability. He is a developing pass-rusher with limited production, recording just 7.5 sacks in his college career. However, he is a solid run-stopper and has risen on draft boards, with many projecting him as a late Day 2 to early Day 3 pick.

  • Darrell Jackson Jr. recently shared on Instagram that he visited the Vikings for a 30-visit.
  • Jackson transferred to Florida State in 2023 after spending 2022 with Miami and 2021 with Maryland.

The players

Darrell Jackson Jr.

A defensive tackle prospect from Florida State University who recently visited the Minnesota Vikings. He is a solid run-stopper but needs to improve his pass-rushing abilities.

Jalen Redmond

A standout defensive tackle for the Minnesota Vikings who will likely be paired with a new nose tackle in the upcoming draft.

Tyrion Ingram-Dawkins

A defensive end for the Minnesota Vikings who started just one game across 250 snaps as a rookie.

Levi Drake Rodriguez

The Vikings' current starting nose tackle, who is undersized for the position at 300 to 307 pounds.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“While he's an enormous interior presence with impressive physical features, Jackson's inconsistencies are partially rooted in flawed fundamentals and technique. He plays too upright and with inconsistent base width/block take-on, making him more easily cleared from gaps.”

— Lance Zierlein, NFL.com Analyst

What’s next

The Vikings will continue to evaluate Darrell Jackson Jr. and other interior defensive line prospects as they prepare for the upcoming NFL Draft, where they hope to find a solution to complement Jalen Redmond and shore up their run defense.

The takeaway

The Vikings' need for a run-stopping nose tackle is clear, and Darrell Jackson Jr. could be a potential solution, but he will need to continue developing his pass-rushing skills to become an every-down contributor. The team's ability to find the right fit at this position will be crucial to their defensive success in the upcoming season.