Head coach Kevin O’Connell announced Monday that guard Donovan Jackson will be sidelined for the remainder of the 2026 NFL season. Jackson suffered a torn meniscus during the Vikings’ 15‑10 home win over the Miami Dolphins on Sunday and will require surgery on his left knee.
Jackson’s rookie impact
Jackson, 23, entered the league as the 24th overall selection in the 2025 NFL Draft after a standout career at Ohio State, where he earned first‑team All‑America honors in 2024. He started all 14 games in his rookie season and has started every game for Minnesota this year, contributing to the Vikings’ 4‑0 start.
Injury details and recovery outlook
The torn meniscus will keep Jackson out for the rest of the campaign, according to the team’s medical staff. O’Connell emphasized that the Vikings will focus on Jackson’s full recovery and will explore options at guard in the weeks ahead.
Additional injury news
In a related update, the Vikings placed offensive tackle Christian Darrisaw in concussion protocol. Darrisaw, 27, is in his sixth season with Minnesota and also started the first four games of the season. The 2021 first‑round pick (No. 23 overall) has appeared in 62 career games, starting 60 of them.
Team outlook
Despite the loss of two key linemen, the Vikings remain unbeaten and are looking to maintain momentum as they head into the next stretch of the schedule. O’Connell praised the depth of the offensive line and expressed confidence that the unit can adapt to the injuries.
What’s next for the Vikings
The coaching staff will evaluate internal options and may consider free‑agent signings or practice‑squad promotions to fill the gaps left by Jackson and Darrisaw. Fans can expect the team to continue emphasizing a strong running game and solid pass protection as they aim to extend their winning streak.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
