Instant analysis of Ravens selecting Vega Ioane with first-round pick

In Jesse Minter's first draft as head coach, the Ravens took steps to protect Lamar Jackson, while bringing brute strength and physicality to Baltimore. In a move that's been mocked and expected for weeks, the Baltimore Ravens selected Penn State All-American guard Vega Ioane with the No. 14 pick in the 2026 NFL draft. Baltimore had two of the lowest-rated offensive guards in the NFL last season, with Andrew Vorhees and Daniel Faalele.

Vorhees will battle John Simpson for snaps, while Faalele signed with the New York Giants. The first round selection ensures Ioane is a Day 1 starter at right guard.

With the reactions to the move coming in, we're looking at an instant analysis of the selection.

Vega is elite

Over his final two seasons in Happy Valley, Ioane didn't allow a single sack and drew zero holding penalties.

Ioane provides options

While he's an All-American guard, Ioane has played offensive tackle and center at Penn State, offering Baltimore positional flexibility with Emery Jones Jr., Andrew Vorhees, and John Simpson as other offensive guards on the roster.

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