So You Drafted Vega Ioane…

The Skinny

Vega Ioane was a three-star recruit out of Graham, Washington and the No. 18 interior offensive lineman in the 2022 class. He originally committed to Washington but decided to move over 2,600 miles away and play for Penn State. After redshirting in 2022, Ioane appeared in all 13 games in the 2023 season. He started only five games, but his performance was good enough to land a spot on the honorable mention All-Big Ten team. In 2024, Ioane became the full-time starter at left guard and became an integral part of Penn State’s offensive line. He was named second-team All-Big Ten. Ioane opted to return to Penn State in 2025 and finished off a stellar college career with first team All-American honors. In what was a disappointing 2025 season filled with turmoil, Ioane was a consistent bright spot on the offensive line.

What You’re Getting

Ioane is the best interior offensive lineman in the 2026 draft class. All projections that I have seen have him taken in the first round. He is not very fast but his footwork and positioning are elite. His pass blocking was impeccable while he was at Penn State, as he did not allow a sack in his two seasons as a starter. His run blocking was not quite as strong but he has enough power to make it work. His strength as a pass blocker should help him adapt to the modern NFL. In the 2025 season, 27 of the league’s 32 teams called more passing plays than run plays. We are nearly certain to hear Ioane’s name called tonight. A spot in the top 10 is possible, though only four interior offensive linemen have been drafted in the top 10 since 1990.