Draft Spotlight: Vega Ioane

Draft Spotlight: Vega Ioane

Baltimore Ravens
24 Apr 2026, 07:10 GMT+

Justin Robertson

The Ravens

Baltimore selected Penn State guard Vega Ioane with the 14th overall pick in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft.

Ioane is a bruising blocker and regarded as the top interior offensive lineman in this year's class, and perhaps the top offensive lineman overall. He allowed zero sacks in 2025, primarily playing left guard.

With a prototypical frame and the tape to back up his first-round projection, Ravens General Manager Eric DeCosta liked Ioane's potential when he discussed the prospect during his pre-draft press conference.

"I've obviously seen him play a bunch," DeCosta said. "He's physical [and] tough. He's probably a guard, but [he] sort of prototypes, straight from central casting of what you want your guards to look like."

Here is a breakdown of Ioane's draft profile:

Measurements:6-foot-4, 320 pounds

Highlights

Scouting Report

"Ioane is a powerful drive blocker who latches on to, lifts, and moves defensive tackles in the run game. He secures the line of scrimmage and works up to linebackers as a combination and zone blocker. He moves well for his size, and he locates assignments when he pulls. He's a mauler with excellent finishing power."Todd McShay, The Ringer

Why he makes sense:The Ravens' offensive line was not consistent enough last season, particularly at guard. Baltimore signed veteran John Simpson, but the starting center and other guard spots are up for grabs. Ioane is a plug-and-play starter who could become a long-term franchise staple up front, leading the way for Lamar Jackson and Derrick Henry.

Background:A Graham, Washington native, Ioane earned first-team all-state honors at left tackle his senior season of high school. A three-star recruit, he originally committed to Washington but decommitted after Washington fired its staff and Kalen DeBoer took over the program. He then committed to James Franklin and Penn State, where he was a starter for over two seasons. Ioane trained with renowned offensive line coach Duke Manyweather during the pre-draft process.

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