Few position groups in college football have evolved as dramatically over the past five seasons as Penn State\u2019s offensive line. Once considered a liability, the unit now returns a veteran-laden core in 2025. Backed by blue-chip depth and fueled by one of the most respected position coaches in the country. With playoff expectations in full swing, the Nittany Lions enter Fall camp with experience, physicality, and versatility up front. This group sets the tone for what could be one of the Big Ten\u2019s most complete offenses. As Fall camp gets underway today, we preview the strongest and deepest position room for Penn State in 2025. This group is collectively setting its sights on winning the Joe Moore Award as the nation\u2019s top offensive line.<\/p>\n
Penn State\u2019s offensive line has shifted from a question mark to a strength, and the 2025 unit enters the season with one of the most balanced and talented groups in the country. Anchored by sixth-year center Nick Dawkins<\/a>, left tackle Drew Shelton<\/a>, and left guard Olaivavega \u201cVega\u201d Ioane<\/a>, the Nittany Lions return a veteran foundation that played a key role in last year\u2019s College Football Playoff run.<\/p>\n Dawkins provides leadership and communication at the heart of the line. His experience as a multi-year starter gives the unit stability, while Shelton\u2019s agility and improved hands make him one of the conference\u2019s more dependable blindside protectors. Ioane has developed into a punishing run blocker and continues to sharpen his pass protection skills.<\/p>\n The only departure from the 2024 starting five is veteran right guard Sal Wormley. While sophomore Cooper Cousins<\/a> enters Fall camp as the projected replacement, nothing is guaranteed. The coaching staff\u2019s focus is clear: get the five best linemen on the field, regardless of position history.<\/p>\n Cousins, one of the most highly regarded recruits landed by Phil Trautwei<\/a>n, brings a powerful base and refined footwork to the interior. But his spot could hinge on the outcome of the right tackle battle. Redshirt senior Nolan Rucci<\/a> and redshirt sophomore Anthony Donkoh<\/a> are locked in competition for the job at tackle. This battle may not be settled until the final weeks of camp. If Rucci holds onto the role he finished 2024 with, Donkoh, who started at right tackle before a late-season injury, could shift inside and push Cousins for the right guard spot.<\/p>\n The battle at right tackle will be one of the most-watched position competitions in Happy Valley. Donkoh opened 2024 as the starter and was an emerging force before an injury late in the year halted his momentum. His frame (6′-5″, 330-plus pounds) and powerful run-blocking style make him an ideal fit for short-yardage and gap schemes. He surrendered minimal pressure before his injury, showing improved technique in pass protection.<\/p>\n Rucci stepped in after Donkoh\u2019s absence and thrived during Penn State\u2019s postseason push. At 6′-8″, the former five-star recruit brings elite length and balance, which allowed him to neutralize some of the Big Ten\u2019s top edge rushers late last season. His strong performance during the Big Ten title game and playoff run has earned him a legitimate chance to secure the starting job.<\/p>\n Donkoh could slide inside if Rucci locks down the tackle position. Coaches believe Donkoh\u2019s skill set could translate well to guard, creating an intriguing battle between him and Cousins. Penn State\u2019s strategy is clear: field the best five linemen, regardless of position history.<\/p>\n Penn State\u2019s tackle depth may be its most promising in years. J\u2019ven Williams, a former five-star recruit, is expected to be the first tackle off the bench. Williams\u2019 athletic profile and explosive movement skills are already drawing comparisons to former first-rounder Olu Fashanu.<\/p>\n Behind him, redshirt freshmen Eagan Boyer and Garrett Sexton are developing into future contributors. Both are tall, long-armed tackles who are adding strength and refining technique under Trautwein\u2019s tutelage. True freshman Malachi Goodman, one of the top offensive line recruits in the 2025 class, will likely redshirt this Fall but projects as a long-term cornerstone.<\/p>\n The guard rotation is deeper than in past seasons. Alongside Cousins and Ioane, the addition of Texas A&M transfer TJ Shanahan<\/a> gives the Nittany Lions another mauler with SEC experience. Shanahan, a former top recruit, thrives in the run game and adds an edge to the interior competition. Sophomore Alex Birchmeier remains an intriguing prospect. His athleticism and quick feet make him a potential swing guard who could step in for either starter. Chimdy Onoh is also progressing after a developmental year.<\/p>\n At center, Dawkins is entrenched as the starter, but redshirt junior Dominic Rulli has quietly become a dependable reserve. Interior flexibility from Cousins, who can also play center, provides extra security.<\/p>\n Since arriving in 2020, offensive line coach Trautwein has redefined Penn State\u2019s approach up front. His focus on technical precision, physical dominance, and relentless preparation has transformed the position group into a strength. Trautwein\u2019s players are not only better in pass protection but also consistently create running lanes for Kaytron Allen and Nicholas Singleton<\/a>.<\/p>\n His influence is seen in the recruitment of elite talent like Williams, Birchmeier, and Sexton, as well as in the development of veterans like Dawkins and Shelton. This 2025 group may be his deepest yet, blending seasoned starters with high-upside underclassmen.<\/p>\nPosition Battles Loom on the Right Side<\/h3>\n
Future Talent at Tackle<\/h3>\n
Depth in the Interior<\/h3>\n
The Trautwein Standard<\/h3>\n
Outlook for 2025<\/h3>\n