ESPN draft analyst highlights why Ravens struck gold with Vega Ioane

Some draft picks just make sense. The Baltimore Ravens’ selection of Olaivavega Ioane falls squarely into that category. The national media is still in awe of what felt obvious from the start. This year's 14th overall selection said he felt a "family environment" during his predraft visit at the team facility. It seems the organization feels the same way.

Then there are the national voices. ESPN's Field Yates recently named his favorite picks from every round of the NFL Draft. Ioane is one of his five favorite picks from Round 1, not necessarily because he was the flashiest name on the board, but because of the complete picture: value, fit, and projection.

"Baltimore's long-standing "stick and pick" preference yielded another strong value in Round 1. Ioane fills a significant need and was the clear-cut best natural guard in the class (I do believe No. 10 pick Francis Mauigoa will move from tackle to guard for the Giants). Ioane is nasty, tough, extremely reliable and disciplined."

That's the Ravens' formula. Ioane isn't just a good player. As you've no doubt heard, he embodies what it means to "play like a Raven."

Physical. Disciplined. Reliable. The kind of interior presence that sets the tone before the ball is even snapped. For a team that has always prioritized controlling the line of scrimmage, this selection wasn’t just about filling a need—it was about reinforcing an identity. Baltimore has long built its roster from the inside out, and Ioane fits seamlessly into that philosophy. He brings toughness in the run game, consistency in pass protection, and the type of edge that defines winning football in the AFC North.