Penn State entered 2025 with national championship aspirations, but fell well short of expectations. The Nittany Lions barely reached bowl eligibility at 6-6. Despite not being in the Big Ten championship picture, there were some bright spots for Penn State. Left guard Vega Ioane was one of those bright spots for the Nittany Lions. He emerged as one of the best offensive linemen in college football and a top prospect for the 2026 NFL Draft. His traits are undeniable, but can Ioane be a first-round pick in 2026?
2026 NFL Draft: Vega Ioane Early Scouting Report
Measurables
Height- 6-foot-4
Weight- 323 pounds
Background
Ioane was a three-star recruit coming out of Graham-Kapowsin (Washington) and the 18th-ranked interior offensive lineman in the Class of 2022. He committed to play for James Franklin and Penn State. Ioane redshirted the 2022 season, appearing in four games. His role along Penn State’s offensive line expanded in 2023, as he made five starts and appeared in all 13 games. Ioane had some growing pains as a redshirt freshman, giving up three sacks and 14 pressures while posting a 63.4 pass blocking grade according to PFF.
He made significant strides in 2024, as the Nittany Lions reached the College Football Playoff. Ioane started all 16 games at left guard and gave up no sacks as a redshirt sophomore. The development seen in 2024 only continued this season. Ioane didn’t give up a sack for the second season in a row and only allowed four pressures in 11 games. He posted an 87.3 pass blocking grade according to PFF. Ioane opted out of the Pinstripe Bowl against Clemson and declared for the 2026 NFL Draft.
Strengths
Ioane’s size is ideal for an NFL starting guard, weighing 323 pounds. He uses his frame to be an elite pass blocker, consistently holding his ground in pass protection. It’s not just the size that makes Ioane such a dominant pass blocker; he also displays excellent technique and good hand placement. His ability to displace pass rushers is incredible, keeping quarterbacks safe from interior pressure. He has capable speed for the position, showing the ability to get to the second level as a run blocker. Pass protection is Ioane’s biggest strength, but he’s also shown upside in the run game. His discipline is also noteworthy, as he has had only five penalties across 2,309 career snaps.
Weaknesses
While there’s a lot to like about Ioane, there are areas for improvement. His pass-blocking prowess is evident, but there are times he gets caught off guard by stunts and blitzes. Improving his recognition when the defense throws unexpected pressures will help him be even more dominant in pass protection. While Ioane is a solid run blocker, he can be more consistent with finishing off reps.
Overview
Ioane has been a remarkable left guard over the past couple of seasons. His combination of size and technique makes him an incredibly gifted pass blocker. He can improve his blitz recognition and finishing plays in the run game, but the traits and production are evident. Projecting draft stock for interior linemen is tricky, as it isn’t a position that usually has premium draft value. Ioane has a great chance to be the first interior lineman taken in the 2026 NFL Draft. He currently projects as a late-first-round pick. The 49ers and Texans are ideal fits, as both can use an upgrade at guard.
Main Photo: Dan Rainville-USA TODAY NETWORK
