2020 NFL Draft: Grades for all 32 first-round picks
59. Scouting Report. Pick Analysis. Austin Jackson. 18. player. Offensive Tackle. USC
Grade: C+
After the run on offensive tackles, it seems like the Miami Dolphins jumped the gun a bit here by taking Austin Jackson. While not a bad pick by any means, it’s a reach for a player who still has many areas in which he needs to improve before he’s ready to be a reliable starter.
If you’re looking solely at potential, this is a solid pick. Jackson is still young, and has the physical tools to develop into a plus starter on the left side. Unfortunately, he’s not there yet.
With that said, it’s unclear if they plan on letting Tagovailoa develop behind Fitzpatrick, which may fit with Jackson’s development schedule.
Realistically, this was early for Jackson. He’s a raw prospect with a great story who fits the bill of a character player who can help change the culture in Miami. They may not be aiming for immediate production, but it still seems like a slight reach for the former Trojan.