Friday, January 16, 2026

2026 NFL Draft Prospect OG Olaivavega Ioane

Olaivavega Ioane:  

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Prediction: The Detroit Lions will walk out of the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft with one of these 10 players (Vega Ioane, IOL, Penn State:  If we’re talking best player available at 17, if Ioane is there right now. This has to be the pick. This guy is so ready to jump right in at left guard and never leave that spot for the next decade. He just fits this team so well.) (4-22-26):  https://atozsports.com/nfl/detroit-lions-news/prediction-the-detroit-lions-will-walk-out-of-the-first-round-of-the-2026-nfl-draft-with-one-of-these-10-players/

The Most Pro-Ready Prospect at Every Position in the 2026 NFL Draft (Interior offensive line - Vega Ioane, OG, Penn State:  Penn State guard Vega Ioane is understandably trending towards being a top-15 pick, with the Miami Dolphins, New York Jets, and Tampa Bay Buccaneers circling the wagons. He's a 320-pound powerful drive blocker with a prototypical physique. Ioane generates elite power as a legitimate people mover. He'll be a Week 1 starter.) (4-22-26):  https://www.si.com/nfl/draft/onsi/news/the-most-pro-ready-prospect-at-every-position-in-the-2026-nfl-draft

7 safest picks in 2026, from Caleb Downs to Jeremiyah Love (Olaivavega Ioane, G, Penn State
Ranked No. 19 overall on SN's big board.  Ioane (6-4, 320 pounds) is not a flashy pick – interior linemen rarely are — but the Penn State guard flashed at the NFL Scouting Combine and was an anchor at left guard for the Nittany Lions the last two seasons with 27 starts. Ioane allowed no sacks and four quarterback hurries in 298 snaps, according to PFF.com. He also emerged as a dominant run blocker and had just one penalty last season. Dallas' Tyler Booker, Seattle's Grey Zabel and Minnesota's Donovan Jackson were first-round guards last season – and all three had success as rookies. Ioane is that caliber of player.) (4-22-26):  https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nfl/news/nfl-draft-2026-safest-picks-caleb-downs-jeremiyah-love/3f3cefd391246bb3eae42810

2026 NFL Draft: The best college game for the top 10 prospects (Vega Ioane leads a group of three interior offensive linemen in the 2026 NFL Draft - “Olaivavega Ioane is the best offensive lineman in the draft. He’s a guard, so I’m sure a few tackles will get selected ahead of him. But there isn’t an offensive lineman in this class that plays their position better than Ioane.” – NFC scout) (4-21-26):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-nfl-draft-the-best-college-game-for-the-top-10-prospects

Where Ty Simpson gets drafted, teams who could shake up NFL Draft and more (2. Who is the safest prospect in this class and why? Wilson: IOL Vega Ioane, Penn State. "Vega Ioane is the cleanest prospect in this class because there's almost no projection required -- what you see on tape is exactly what translates on Sundays. He plays with a consistently low pad level, absorbs bull rushes, resets with a well-timed punch, and is rarely off-balance or out of position. What separates Ioane from other interior offensive linemen, even those likely to go in the first round, is attention to the technical details and consistency in both pass protection and the run game. There's no boom-or-bust projection with Ioane; just a high-floor player with plug-and-play ability for the next decade."  4. Which player has a real chance to crash the top 10?  Wilson: IOL Vega Ioane, Penn State. "The board doesn't lend itself to a guard going inside the top 10 but I think Vega Ioane is that special. I've also heard that teams selecting high have discussed taking him because he's such a clean prospect. I know that Giants fans aren't pumped about the idea of taking another tackle with a top-5 pick, and I'd imagine a guard wouldn't go over well either. But I can tell you that New York's o-line would be a lot better with Ioane (even over, say Francis Mauigoa) and Jaxson Dart would be the biggest beneficiary. The same could be said for the Browns, too, who currently have the No. 6 pick; do you want to try to project what Monroe Freeling or Kadyn Proctor or Caleb Lomu looks like at left tackle … or just take the slam dunk in Ioane?") (4-21-26):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2026-nfl-draft-roundtable-ty-simpson/

2026 NFL Draft: 8 Prospects Who Will Make This Draft One to Remember (Vega Ioane, OG, Penn State:  You’ve gotta love a mauler — the kind of offensive lineman who makes you think of demolition equipment. That’s Ioane.  Someone will select him in the first 16 picks, and there will be the detractors who say something to the effect of, "Don’t like taking a guard there." But at that exact same moment, that team’s running back (and quarterback) will be thanking their higher powers for the selection.  It’s not going to sell tickets. It’s going to boost the offense.) (4-21-26):  https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/8-prospects-who-will-make-2026-nfl-draft-one-remember

TWENTYMAN: 10 prospects who make sense for Lions at 17 (4. IOL Olaivavega Ioane, Penn State: The Lions have built up good depth along the interior of their offensive line this offseason with the additions of Cade Mays, Juice Scruggs, Ben Bartch and Seth McLaughlin, but Ioane might be the best offensive lineman in this entire draft and those types of players are hard to pass on. A starter at left guard the last two and a half seasons, Ioane plays with a nasty disposition that would fit right in with Detroit's O-line room. Ioane didn't allow a sack in each of the last two seasons and could be a starter at left guard for the next decade.) (4-21-26):  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/2026-nfl-draft-10-prospects-detroit-lions-pick-17-freeling-faulk-mccoy

Top 10 players fans are mock drafting to the Lions (3. Penn State G Vega Ioane — 14% of selections.  Some argue the best offensive line prospect in this year’s class, Ioane may not play a premium position—and isn’t at the Lions’ biggest of needs—but he would come in an immediately upgrade Detroit’s left guard position. Ioane, though, is most commonly mocked to the Ravens (36%).) (4-20-26):  https://www.prideofdetroit.com/detroit-lions-draft/162106/top-10-players-fans-mock-drafting-detroit-lions-1st-round

The 7 safest picks in 2026 NFL Draft, from Caleb Downs to Jeremiyah Love (Olaivavega Ioane, G, Penn State - Ranked No. 19 overall on SN's big board. Ioane (6-4, 320 pounds) is not a flashy pick – interior linemen rarely are — but the Penn State guard flashed at the NFL Scouting Combine and was an anchor at left guard for the Nittany Lions the last two seasons with 27 starts. Ioane allowed no sacks and four quarterback hurries in 298 snaps, according to PFF.com. He also emerged as a dominant run blocker and had just one penalty last season. Dallas' Tyler Booker, Seattle's Grey Zabel and Minnesota's Donovan Jackson were first-round guards last season – and all three had success as rookies. Ioane is that caliber of player.) (4-20-26):  https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nfl/news/nfl-draft-2026-safest-picks-caleb-downs-jeremiyah-love/3f3cefd391246bb3eae42810


2026 NFL draft: Louis Riddick's favorite prospects, sleepers (Olaivavega Ioane, G, Penn State - Height: 6-4 | Weight: 320.  At its core, football is about dominant, physical play along the lines of scrimmage. And there was nobody in college football last season who had more snaps of impose-your-will play along the offensive line than Ioane. He is an absolute tank at 320 pounds, and he has the versatility to line up anywhere on the line. Ioane plays with power, agility, speed and a level of nastiness when finishing blocks that is truly unique.  Any front office that believes in building from the inside out and staying strong down the middle -- something I have talked about for the past decade -- should see Ioane as a must-have foundational player.) (4-18-26):  https://www.espn.com/nfl/draft2026/story/_/id/48513002/2026-nfl-draft-riddick-favorite-prospects-class-sleepers-love-styles-cooper

25 Best NFL Draft Fits For the Lions Ranked by Round and Impact (4. IOL Olaivavega Ioane:  Ioane is one of the best interior offensive line prospects in the entire draft. The Lions overhauled their interior line this offseason, adding a center and two guards to the mix. However, Ioane is a young player who would push Mahogany and Ratledge right away, and would be a wise investment for a team looking to get younger up front.) (4-17-26):  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/onsi/25-best-nfl-draft-fits-for-lions-ranked-by-round-impact-2026

2026 NFL Draft top offensive linemen (6. G Olaivavega Ioane, Penn State:  An incredibly NFL-ready guard who anchored down the Penn State offensive line. His pass protection is incredible – he did not let up a sack in 2025, and he played a full season over 600 snaps. Ioane already weighs 330 pounds, which is ideal for today’s NFL.) (4-16-26):  https://www.thebiglead.com/2026-nfl-draft-top-offensive-linemen/

This Round 1 is built for chaos: 10 bold predictions that could hit (6. Nine OL come off the board - This year is the "draft good players regardless of positional value" kind of draft, but I still think we're going to see a lot of offensive linemen come off the board. If teams are going to take swings based on potential, they're more likely to do it at premium positions, and this offensive line class has a ton of potential. Tackles like Georgia's Monroe Freeling, Utah's Caleb Lomu and Arizona State's Max Iheanachor could be superstars down the line with the right development, while interior linemen like Miami's Francis Mauigoa, Utah's Spencer Fano and Penn State's Olaivavega Ioane could be instant plug-and-play starters. Add in Alabama's Kadyn Proctor, Clemson's Blake Miller and Texas A&M's Chase Bisontis, and you get nine linemen in the first round, the most since 2024.) (4-15-26):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2026-nfl-draft-bold-predictions-round-1/

2026 NFL Draft preview: 5 interior offensive linemen that could interest Lions (1. Olaivavega Ioane, Penn State - 6-4, 320. Did not run 40-yard dash.  Ioane is considered one of the top guard prospects in several years. He's a mauler in the run game while being wide-bodied and stout at the point of attack in pass protection. He's the total package and a likely plug and play prospect inside for all 32 teams.) (4-13-26):  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/2026-nfl-draft-preview-5-interior-offensive-linemen-detroit-lions-ioane-rutledge-bisontis

2026 NFL Draft: Ioane Expected Top 15, Pregnon and Bisontis Racing for OG2 and Rutledge as a Sleeper (Olaivavega Ioane:  Word inside the league is that people expect Olaivavega Ioane of Penn State to be a top-15 pick, and it’s very likely he lands with the Baltimore Ravens, who own the 14th selection. Not every team has Ioane at the top of their guard boards, yet the majority do, including teams considering the position in Round 1.) (4-11-26):  https://www.essentiallysports.com/nfl-active-news-twenty-twenty-six-nfl-draft-ioane-expected-top-fifteen-pregnon-and-bisontis-racing-for-og2-and-rutledge-as-a-sleeper/

Olaivavega Ioane might be a perfect OG prospect in NFL Draft (4-9-26):  https://www.sbnation.com/nfl/1109855/olaivavega-ioane-scouting-report-best-linemen-offensive-nfl-draft-2026

Top 25 Prospects For The Detroit Lions In The 2026 NFL Draft: If the Lions wind up with any of these guys, they had a good draft (1: Vega Ioane, IOL, Penn State - Average Draft Position: 16th.  AtoZ Sports Big Board Ranking: 16th.  The Beast Ranking: 12th  I know Lions fans have their hearts set on a tackle or an edge with the 17th pick, but if they get a shot at Ioane, we’re talking about the guy who is truly the best player available at the 17th pick.  He hasn’t allowed a sack in two seasons, and he only allowed four pressures in 2025. Having an interior of Ioane, Cade Mays, and Tate Ratledge is a game-changer for Detroit. They won’t need to update for the next decade.) (4-8-26):  https://atozsports.com/nfl/detroit-lions-news/top-25-prospects-for-the-detroit-lions-in-the-2026-nfl-draft-if-the-lions-wind-up-with-any-of-these-guys-they-had-a-good-draft/

ESPN projects Detroit Lions' first-round NFL draft pick based on intel (4-8-26):  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2026/04/08/espn-detroit-lions-nfl-mock-draft-intel/89511026007/

Insider Reveals Lions Mock Draft That Targets 'Dan Campbell' Player (4-7-26):  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/onsi/news/insider-reveals-lions-mock-draft-targets-dan-campbell-player

NFL analyst has 3 ‘can’t miss’ 2026 NFL Draft prospects (Olaivavega Ioane:  Fehoko opened with strong praise for Ioane, calling the Penn State offensive guard the best prospect at the position since Quenton Nelson.  He views Ioane as a day-one starter worthy of a top-10 selection. Ioane’s ability to thrive in multiple schemes, combined with his dominance in the trenches, makes him one of the safest prospects in the class.  Fehoko also projected a long, successful career for Ioane, predicting he will play at a high level for more than a decade. Ioane currently ranks 16th on the consensus board.) (4-5-26):  https://www.thebiglead.com/nfl-analyst-has-3-cant-miss-2026-nfl-draft-prospects/

2026 NFL Draft offensive line rankings: Deep class has several 1st-round candidates to protect your QB (7. Olaivavega Ioane, Penn State: Ioane is one of the few high-end interior offensive line prospects in this draft. Even though he struggles at times with consistency, there aren’t many players who project as a Day 1 starting NFL offensive lineman. That alone should get the physical, athletic guard locked in as a top-40 selection. — CM) (4-2-26):  https://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/article/2026-nfl-draft-offensive-line-rankings-deep-class-has-several-1st-round-candidates-to-protect-your-qb-181924091.html

The Lions Should Draft This Guy: Vega Ioane is the prime example of a player who could throw the Lions’ assumed draft plans off course in a good way (4-2-26):  https://atozsports.com/nfl/detroit-lions-news/the-lions-should-draft-this-guy-vega-ioane-is-the-prime-example-of-a-player-who-could-throw-the-lions-assumed-draft-plans-off-course-in-a-good-way/


TWENTYMAN: 6 pro days to watch this week (2. Penn State, Wed., March 18 - Who to watch: Some draft analysts think Penn State guard Olaivavega Ioane is the top offensive lineman in the draft. Teams will want to see what his 10-yard split in the 40-yard dash is at his pro day, though that number shouldn't affect his status as one of the best linemen in the class. He can also help himself by showing off some lateral quickness in drills.) (3-15-26):  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/2026-nfl-draft-6-pro-days-to-watch-this-week-allen-freeling-ioane

Lions Draft: An interior OL for every round (First round: Vega Ioane, Penn State - There’s a fair chance Ioane will be gone before the Lions pick at No. 17. He’s a guard-only prospect but a very high-end, power-oriented one. He’s a snowplow in the run game, especially when the 320-pound Ioane can initiate contact with his punch before having to move. Ioane bears some stylistic resemblance and power-laden run game work with one-time Lions Pro Bowler Larry Warford in his (too brief) prime. He doesn’t have the lateral range or quickness with his hands of the elite NFL guards, but Ioane looks like a high-floor, ready-made starter for a gap/duo-heavy scheme like the Lions. Outside zone teams (think Shanahan-style teams) shouldn’t value Ioane nearly as much, as his range is limited and takes away from his in-your-face power.) (3-11-26):  https://www.detroitlionspodcast.com/jeff-risdon/2026/03/11/lions-2026-nfl-draft-interior-ol-guard-center-for-every-round/

2026 NFL Draft Stock Report (Up - Vega Ioane, G, Penn State:  Ioane is the only interior offensive lineman who looks like a lock to be a first-round pick next month. Ioane is a beast at the point of attack with power and physicality as a run blocker. With his strength at the point of attack, Ioane should be an asset in short-yardage and the goal line. Ioane is also rock solid in pass protection. He could be a plug-and-play starter at guard with the potential to go in the top-20.) (3/10/26):  https://walterfootball.com/draft2026stock_27.php

What I learned at the NFL combine: Detroit Lions buzz and draft targets (If I had to pick a few names of players who could be fits for the Lions in the first round right now: Monroe Freeling (Georgia), Keldric Faulk (Auburn), Vega Ioane (Penn State), Emmanuel McNeil-Warren (Toledo), Dillon Thieneman (Oregon), Ahkeem Mesidor (Miami), Blake Miller (Clemson), Caleb Lomu (Utah) and Zion Young (Missouri). Subject to change, of course.  15. Ioane is one of my favorite players in the class. He could be a high-level left guard as a rookie, and a potential Pro Bowler in Year 2. The athleticism, the physicality, the instincts, the preparation, the maturity and the way he carries himself — all traits the Lions (and teams ahead of them) will fall in love with. The Lions don’t have a huge need at guard, but there’s a strong chance Ioane would be the best player available if he falls to 17. Pairing him with a veteran center could solve the OL issues.) (3-5-26):  https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/7083679/2026/03/05/lions-combine-analysis-needs/

2026 NFL Draft: Grading top 25 prospects at the NFL combine (Olaivavega Ioane - Measurables: 6-feet-4¼, 320 pounds, 10½-inch hands, 32¾-inch arm length, 80⅝-inch wingspan.  Testing: 31.5-inch vertical, 8-foot-8 broad.  Grade: B+ -- Solid numbers and solid on-field work. Ioane checked the box as the draft's best true guard prospect. What stood out most during his on-field workout was his ability to maintain his base on the move. He's going to be difficult to overpower at the next level.) (3-3-26):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2026-nfl-draft-grades-top-25-prospects-nfl-combine/

2026 NFL Draft: Joel Klatt's Top 10 Offensive Prospects (9. Vega Ioane, G, Penn State:  I saw plenty of this guy during his college career. He's the best interior offensive lineman in the draft. He's very athletic. The coaches raved about his work ethic, leadership and his ability to do different things. He can bend and he's powerful.  I loved over the last couple of years when Penn State would stand him up in that Andy Kotelnicki offense and have him motion. That ability to move around is a huge asset, though. He'll play guard and do it well. But if you need a sixth offensive lineman, he can be that guy. That versatility will pay dividends.) (3-3-26):  https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/2026-nfl-draft-joel-klatt-top-10-offensive-prospects-fernando-mendoza-jeremiyah-love

Connor Rogers’ NFL Combine takeaways: Jeremiyah Love could go top five, Jets leaning Arvell Reese? (Throughout the week, it was interesting to ask each guy what their game week routine was during the season. Out of almost fifty interviews, Penn State guard Vega Ioane was the only player that started his preparation right when he got home from the previous game. His attention to detail and obsession with football is on a pretty unique level, which isn’t surprising to learn considering what he has put on tape.) (3-2-26):  https://www.nbcsports.com/nfl/news/connor-rogers-nfl-combine-takeaways-jeremiyah-love-could-go-top-five-jets-leaning-arvell-reese

All-Combine Team Offense: Who rocked Indy? Best NFL fits? (Olaivavega Ioane Penn State - Best team fits: Tennessee Titans, Cleveland Browns, Las Vegas Raiders, San Francisco 49ers.  It didn't take long for me to recognize that Ioane has the goods. The Penn State product was the first in line for seemingly every drill and set a very high standard for his counterparts, displaying fluid hips, light, choppy feet, a knack for changing direction smoothly and a violent punch in shield drills. He excelled across the board during on-field work, producing a near-perfect showing that leads me to believe he'll be productive right away at the next level. He had comparable measurables to one-time Pro Bowler and 14-year guard Kevin Zeitler, who has long won with force and footwork at the pro level. Ioane has the potential to be that kind of player and more.) (3-2-26):  https://www.nfl.com/news/2026-all-combine-team-offense-nfl-draft

2026 NFL Combine results: 12 winners from the offensive tackle/guard group (Guards - Vega Ioane, LG, Penn State (6-foot-4 1/4, 320):  The “best offensive lineman in the draft,” according to NFL Network’s Daniel Jeremiah, Ioane did not run or jump in at the Combine, but his on-field drills checked the boxes. Consistently under control with his movements, Ioane is a power strider, with a quick get off. He drops weight on the edge and explodes out of his breaks. He displays quick, clean feet and an easy mirror match, stays square at all times, and has a ton of pop in his punch. If he’s there at pick No. 17, and the Lions decide to move Tate Ratledge to center, Ioane would solve a lot of problems in the Lions’ interior offensive line.) (3-1-26):  https://www.prideofdetroit.com/detroit-lions-draft/158383/2026-nfl-combine-results-12-winners-from-the-offensive-tackle-guard-group

Combine OL grades: Who helped their draft stock Sunday? (Olaivavega Ioane - Measurables: 6-foot-4¼, 320 pounds, 10½-inch hands, 32¾-inch arm length, 80⅝-inch wingspan.  Testing: 31.5-inch vertical jump, 8-foot-8 broad jump.  Grade: B+ -- Olaivavega Ioane did not complete full athletic testing, but his on-field performance validated what showed up on tape. He is a wide, powerful blocker who moves well for his size and sets the tone up front. The Penn State product was listed as a standout in essentially every drill. Ioane could be the first interior offensive lineman drafted in April.) (3-1-26):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2026-nfl-combine-offensive-line-grades-spencer-fano-kadyn-proctor/

Day 4: Offensive linemen (What are the biggest takeaways from Sunday's workouts?  Yates: I concur completely Jordan, as it's going to be a wide-open derby in Round 1 at offensive tackle. There's much less debate at guard, as Penn State's Olaivavega Ioane is the only lock to go in the first round. And I do expect a flurry of picks for all offensive linemen from the end of Day 2 into the early portion of Day 3.  How did other top prospects look on Day 4?  Olaivavega Ioane, G, Penn State:  Ioane did exactly what he needed to do: Leave zero doubt that he is the best guard in the class and will go in the first round. He opted not to run, but his overall footwork and athletic profile really shined in the positional drills. Plus, he measured in at just over 6-foot-4 and 320 pounds, with a wingspan of roughly 80 inches -- all of those are rock solid for a guard prospect. Ioane is among the prospects with the fewest question marks, which is part of the reason why he ranks 16th overall on my board. -- Yates) (3-1-26):  https://www.espn.com/nfl/draft2026/story/_/id/47978529/2026-nfl-combine-top-draft-prospects-workouts-risers-40-every-position#day4takeaways

NFL Combine: 7 high-character offensive linemen for Detroit Lions (Penn State G Vega Ioane - Size: 6-foot-4, 320 pounds.  Quick bio: A three-year starter almost exclusively at left guard (but has taken snaps at all five positions), Ioane may not make to the Lions at 17 overall. He’s a mauler in the run game, but not the most athletic of the class. That said, he dropped 20 pounds in his final year as a Nittany Lion to prove he can move better and retain his strength at a lighter weight.  Current draft projection: Round 1.  Combine vibes:  Ioane’s presser didn’t blow me away, but his tape is very solid. When asked about his game, he offered a lot of the platitudes you’d expect from an offensive lineman.  “You’re going to get a competitive player. When I go out there on the field, I’m an entirely different person,” Ioane said. “Gonna get a competitive player out of me, an aggressive player, and, like I said, the mentality of being the most physical guy out there.”  It was interesting to hear him say that dropping the 20 pounds in his final college year was completely his idea to see if he could maintain his strength and effectiveness while improving his movement—which he did.) (3-1-26):  https://www.prideofdetroit.com/detroit-lions-draft/158358/nfl-combine-7-high-character-offensive-linemen-for-detroit-lions

2026 NFL combine: What We Learned during Saturday's activities in Indianapolis (1. Draft's top guard reveals hidden talent. Penn State's Olaivavega Ioane is one of the top offensive linemen in the 2026 NFL Draft, and he's apparently no slouch in the kitchen, either.  When the 6-foot-4, 336-pound guard was asked on Saturday to name his superpower off the field, he didn't hesitate.  "I can bake, man," Ioane said. "I got into baking a little bit. I can make a mean banana bread."  As appetizing as his culinary endeavors sound, Ioane's primary focus is football for now, with NFL.com analyst Daniel Jeremiah ranking him the No. 11 player in this year's draft. The former Nittany Lion didn't start playing the sport until his sophomore year of high school and was just a three-start recruit out of Graham, Washington. Since then, he's developed into a dominant left guard who should hear his name called in Round 1.  Ioane said he will not be participating in the 40-yard dash -- a less meaningful test for offensive linemen relative to players at other positions -- at the combine, but he predicted he would clock a 5.1-second run if he did hit the turf. -- Dan Parr) (2-28-26):  https://www.nfl.com/news/2026-nfl-combine-what-we-learned-during-saturday-s-activities-in-indianapolis

2026 NFL combine: Top draft prospects, workout predictions (What's the best piece of buzz you've heard heading into the combine workouts? Miller: Penn State guard Olaivavega Ioane could be a top-15 pick and a future All-Pro. The 6-foot-4 330-pounder is a favorite of many evaluators I've talked to since the Senior Bowl. "He's a mauler with ballerina feet," one NFC South area scout said. Guards aren't usually seen as smart investments in Round 1 due to positional value, and the rookie wage scale dictating a high salary for first-rounders, but Ioane is seen as one of the safest picks in this class.) (2-26-26):  https://www.espn.com/nfl/draft2026/story/_/id/47977627/2026-nfl-draft-combine-preview-prospects-workouts-quarterbacks-risers

2026 NFL Draft: Top 50 Prospects at the Scouting Combine (18. Olaivavega Ioane, OG, Penn State:  At a dense 6-foot-4, 328 pounds, Ioane is perfectly built for the battles in the trenches, absorbing would-be rushers with his broad frame and heavy hands. While possible tackle converts could ultimately be drafted earlier, Ioane is the consensus top-rated "pure" interior offensive lineman of this class.) (2-23-26):  https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/2026-nfl-draft-top-50-prospects-scouting-combine

2026 NFL Draft: Pre-combine consensus ADP — top 20 players in the PFF Mock Draft Simulator (20. OG Olaivavega Ioane, Penn State: Average draft position 22.0.  Ioane debuts in the top 20 as the highest-ranked interior offensive lineman among MDS users. He finished the season with an 87.0 PFF pass-blocking grade and a 78.6 PFF run-blocking grade, highlighting his balanced skill set. It would not be surprising to see him come off the board around this range, particularly for a team in need of interior line stability.) (2-23-26):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2026-nfl-draft-top-20-players-adp-mock-draft-simulator

Top Prospects Lions Fans Need to Watch at 2026 Scouting Combine (Olaivavega Ioane, Penn State:  The best guard prospect in the draft, Ioane looks the part of an immediate NFL starter. He's solid in the run game and handles his assignments well as a pass-blocker. If the Lions elect to slide Tate Ratledge over to center, Ioane becomes a top option in the first-round.) (2-23-26):  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/onsi/news/top-prospects-lions-fans-to-watch-2026-scouting-combine

2026 NFL Combine preview: 10 IOL prospects the Lions should be scouting (Plug-and-play guards - Vega Ioane, LG, Penn State (6-foot-4, 335 pounds):  Ioane has an NFL-ready frame, tremendous core strength, a workman-like toughness, high-level technique, will dominate for long stretches of time, and is the only blue-chip interior offensive lineman worthy of a first-round pick in this year’s class.  As a pass protector, Ioane is a quick-footed knee bender with vise-grip hands that lock onto defenders, allowing him to redirect them. He has a firm anchor, swiveling his hips under defenders and controlling them with leverage. At times, he seems immune to contact, especially against pass rushers who try to use power moves against him. His one weakness is that he can struggle with quick-moving speed rushers who cross his face and force him to adjust laterally quickly, but overall, he is very aware of his surroundings and doesn’t fall for defensive line stunts.  As a run blocker, he is powerful, explosive, and a finisher. His feet constantly grind, and he will latch-and-drive defenders, leveraging them out of rushing lanes. His limited lateral movement comes into play here as well, as he’s only an average mover, but is still effective when pulling or climbing to the second level.) (2-21-26):  https://www.prideofdetroit.com/detroit-lions-draft/156657/2026-nfl-combine-preview-10-iol-prospects-the-lions-should-be-scouting

2026 NFL Draft OL Rankings: Big Board, Tiers & Predictions (3. Vega Ioane, IOL, Penn State:  In a draft that lacks high-end premium talent, an NFL team is going to take Vega Ioane early. An absolute mauler at guard, Ioane generates movement with elite play strength. The Penn State product is physical with a real finisher's mentality.) (2-20-26):  https://www.si.com/nfl/draft/onsi/rumors/2026-nfl-draft-ol-rankings-big-board-tiers-predictions-01khtpnft5np

2026 Combine preview: Interior offensive line (1. Olaivavega Ioane, Penn State, 6-4, 323:  Ioane has the prototypical size, strength, athleticism and demeanor to be an instant impact starter in the NFL. He surrendered just four pressures and zero sacks and zero quarterback hits while earning First-Team All-Big Ten and First-Team All-American recognition this past year.) (2-18-26):  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/2026-combine-preview-interior-offensive-line-ioane-bisontis-pregnon

2026 NFL Draft: Top 5 prospects at each offensive position (2. Olaivavega Ioane, Penn State:  What a fun interior offensive line class. The top true guard in college football this past fall was fellow Samoan Olaivavega "Vega" Ioane. He put together impeccably clean tape from start to finish. He has an ideal guard frame with unmatched consistency in pass protection.) (2-18-26):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/nfl-draft-2026-combine-offensive-rankings-top-5-by-position/

2026 NFL Draft All-Prospect Team: Building the Best Squad Possible Using Only Incoming Rookies (Offensive Guards: Olaivavega Ioane, Emmanuel Pregnon - Penn State’s Olaivavega Ioane has a strong case to be the first true guard selected in this year’s NFL Draft, coming off an impressive season with the Nittany Lions. His performance earned him PFSN’s consensus No. 1 offensive guard ranking, along with a strong 89.6 OL Impact rating.) (2-10-26):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2026-nfl-draft-all-prospect-team-rookie-squad/


2026 NFL Draft: PFSN’s Consensus Top 10 Interior Offensive Linemen Include Olaivavega Ioane, Gennings Dunker (2. Olaivavega Ioane, Penn State:  As far as natural interior offensive linemen go, Olaivavega Ioane is the consensus top player in the 2026 NFL Draft. He graded as the top interior lineman on two of PFSN’s three rankings, and Alec Elijah still had him in second place. He comes highly regarded by our staff after a stellar 2025 campaign at Penn State.  If there’s one phrase that describes Ioane, it’s “pro-ready”. He’s a polished technician with an expert use of his hands to maintain inside leverage, and he does a good job of keeping pads low and his weight underneath him. In particular, his snatch-trap technique is killer. He’s a strong guard prospect with a sturdy anchor, and he has enough athleticism to pair with it to get him first-round consideration in this year’s class.) (1-9-26):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2026-nfl-draft-pfsn-consensus-top-interior-offensive-linemen/

Early Lions 2026 Mock Draft Big Board (Olaivavega Ioane, Penn Stat:  If the Lions choose to target the interior offensive line early, Ioane is a solid option. He played at left guard for the Nittany Lions this year, earning a 79.0 overall offensive grade and particularly grading out well as a pass protector.  Detroit really struggled with its pass-blocking on the offensive interior this year, as the young tandem of Christian Mahogany and Tate Ratledge struggled to pick up twists and stunts from interior defensive linemen. Ioane's track record suggests that he could help in this regard.) (1-6-26):  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/onsi/news/early-lions-2026-mock-draft-big-board

2026 NFL draft: Every prospect with a first-round grade (The interior offensive line class doesn't feature a first-round grade, but there are strong contenders to be selected late in the first round anyway. Penn State guard Olaivavega Ioane ranks as a top-40 player on my board and has the consistent run game and pass protection skills to be a starter in the NFL. The 6-foot-4, 330-pounder has already declared for the draft. Oregon guard Emmanuel Pregnon and Auburn center Connor Lew could push into that range, too.) (1-3-26):  https://www.espn.com/nfl/draft2026/story/_/id/47455728/2026-nfl-draft-board-prospects-first-round-grades-comps

2026 NFL Draft prospects: Top 10 players on offense (Interior offensive line - 1. Olaivavega Ioane, Penn State:  Ioane is the top interior prospect in the class thanks to his mix of size (6-foot-4, 335 pounds), strength, athleticism and nasty streak at the point of attack.) (12-20-25):  https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/draft/2025/12/13/2026-nfl-draft-top-10-rankings-offense/87685462007/

2026 NFL Draft Guide to Bowl Season: The Best Prospect At Each Position (Offensive guard: Olaivavega "Vega" Ioane, Penn State.  Like the aforementioned Mauigoa, Ioane’s strength is quite literally that — his strength. He looks like an NFL guard already, boasting a thick, powerfully-built 6-foot-4, 328-pound frame, and he anchors like the Titanic, sinking his hips and absorbing bull rushers like a seasoned pro. He has starred the past two seasons at left guard but does have some right guard experience, which only boosts his stock with NFL teams. As one might guess, Ioane is more of a people-mover than a lithe athlete on the move, despite the relative nimbleness (and kindness) he showed in a viral video of him helping a Penn State staffer moving equipment following a clash with Ohio State.  Projected NFL Draft grade: 1st-2nd Round.  NFL comparison: Kevin Zeitler, Tennessee Titans) (12-19-25):  https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/2026-nfl-draft-guide-bowl-season-best-prospect-each-position

2026 NFL draft: Updated offensive positional rankings (Interior offensive line - 1. G Olaivavega Ioane - Penn State) (12-12-25):  https://draftwire.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/draft/2025/12/12/2026-nfl-draft-updated-offensive-positional-rankings/87686023007/

Penn State OL declares for NFL draft, opts out of bowl: ‘Journey of a lifetime’ (12-12-25):  https://www.centredaily.com/sports/college/penn-state-university/psu-football/article313660509.html

Penn State football | RB Allen, OL Ioane named to Big Ten first team (Penn State senior running back Kaytron Allen and redshirt junior offensive lineman Olaivavega Ioane were named All-Big Ten first team honorees on Thursday.  Ioane played in 44 games for the Lions, starting 32 of them. According to Pro Football Focus, heallowed zero sacks and just two pressures in 310 pass blocking attempts this season.) (12-12-25):  https://www.altoonamirror.com/sports/psu/football-news/2025/12/allen-ioane-bigten-first-team-named/

2026 NFL Draft OL Rankings: Left Tackle Class Lacks a True No. 1 as Prospects Disappoint (Olaivavega Ioane/G/Penn State: The top pure guard in the draft has been mocked in the first round by some, but I’m not so sure. Ioane is a power gap lineman who easily controls one-on-one blocking assignments and annihilates defenders at the point of attack. He’s a devastating run blocker, yet he shows a lot of stiffness and struggles blocking any distance from the line of scrimmage. The one-dimensionality of his game will limit the schemes Ioane can line up in on Sundays.) (12-4-25):  https://www.essentiallysports.com/nfl-active-news-flagship-2026-nfl-draft-ol-rankings-left-tackle-class-lacks-a-true-no-1-as-prospects-disappoint/

Updated 2026 NFL Draft big board for the end of the CFB regular season (15. Vega Ioane IOL Penn State) (12-2-25):  https://draftwire.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/draft/2025/12/02/2026-nfl-draft-prospect-rankings-big-board-update/87554292007/

2026 NFL Draft Rankings: Interior offensive linemen (1. Olaivavega Ioane, Penn State Nittany Lions - Big board rank: 28.  Ioane is a densely built guard prospect who does a lot of things well when projected to a downhill man or gap run-blocking scheme. Along with football, he grew up playing rugby and basketball, giving him an intriguing multi-sport background. He has a low, wide and powerful pre-snap stance, which gives him a good first step for reach blocks and power when blocking downhill. He does a good job of hand-fighting with coordination and balance to reposition in pass protection. His wide base helps him neutralize some pass-rush moves, but he can struggle with lateral movements, such as when outside zone-run blocking and facing cross-face pass-rush moves.) (12-1-25):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2026-nfl-draft-interior-offensive-linemen-rankings

2026 NFL draft questions: Top prospects, QB class, risers (How many offensive linemen will get drafted in Round 1? Reid: Right now, I would say four. This offensive tackle class doesn't have the surefire top-10 picks that Will Campbell and Armand Membou were in 2025. The battle to be the first offensive tackle off the board is probably between the Utah duo of Spencer Fano and Caleb Lomu, but Francis Mauigoa (Miami) is another name to remember. Although he has strictly played right tackle for the Hurricanes, many scouts that I have talked to view him as a guard at the next level.  Kadyn Proctor (Alabama) will be a highly debated prospect, as some evaluators view him as a Round 1 player, whereas others have him graded as a Day 2 prospect because of inconsistency. Guard Olaivavega Ioane (Penn State) and tackle Trevor Goosby (Texas) are also on the rise and could eventually get first-round consideration.) (12-1-25):  https://www.espn.com/nfl/draft2026/story/_/id/47097046/2026-nfl-draft-questions-top-prospects-qb-class-risers

Olaivavega Ioane NFL Draft Profile: Week 13 Scouting Report for the Penn State Offensive Guard (11-22-25):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/olaivavega-ioane-nfl-draft-week-13-2025/

Olaivavega Ioane NFL Draft Profile: Week 12 Scouting Report for the Penn State Offensive Guard (11-15-25):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/olaivavega-ioane-nfl-draft-week-12-2025/

Olaivavega Ioane NFL Draft Profile: Week 11 Scouting Report for the Penn State Offensive Guard (11-8-25):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/olaivavega-ioane-nfl-draft-week-11-2025/

Ranking Penn State’s top 2026 NFL draft prospects: from first-round locks to developmental gambles (The projects worth gambling on - Oluwavega Ioane, OG (86.2 grade):  Ioane didn’t even step on a football field until his sophomore year of high school, and that late start shows in his technique. At 6-4 and 330 pounds with a 5.35 forty-yard dash time, Ioane is massive and surprisingly nimble for someone his size. Guards with his physical tools can carve out careers in the middle rounds if they show coachability and a willingness to learn. He’s a project, but the kind NFL teams take swings on in rounds four through six.) (11-8-25):  https://atozsports.com/college-football/penn-state-nittany-lions-news/ranking-penn-states-top-2026-nfl-draft-prospects-first-round-locks-developmental-gambles/

2026 NFL Draft: Midseason OL prospect rankings (8. Olaivavega Ioane, OG, Penn State:  Ioane checks all the boxes of an ass-kicking guard. He’s big (6’4”, 330 lbs) and strong with a mean streak to finish blocks. His foot speed and lateral movement are good enough for zone blocking, but he’s better suited for a downhill scheme. In protection, his grip strength, sustainability, and anchor are elite against bigger interior rushers. However, he’ll struggle to bend against quicker LBs or DEs. Ioane is a guard only, but he can be a high-level player for many years to come.) (11-7-25):  https://draftwire.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/draft/2025/11/07/2026-nfl-draft-midseason-ol-prospect-rankings/87132337007/

2026 NFL Draft Offensive Intel: A QB no one is talking about, the ultimate boom or bust WR, a sleeper at TE, and more (Olaivavega Ioane, OL, Penn State - What sources are saying: “Big, physical, athletic, silent assassin that can bully people in the run game and stone guys in protection. There’s definitely a lot to like.” Analysis: “Vega” got me juiced up the first time I really dove into his film. You talk about checking physical traits boxes. He’s dense but nimble. Powerful and fluid. You love his anchor and the lower body recruitment when he’s charged with displacing at the line of scrimmage. There hasn’t been much that’s gone right for Penn State this season but Ioane has been a delight to watch, especially in pass protection where he shows off his grip strength and his active feet.) (11-3-25):  https://atozsports.com/nfl-draft/2026-nfl-draft-intel-chris-bell-cole-payton-olaivavega-loane/

Olaivavega Ioane NFL Draft Profile: Week 10 Scouting Report for the Penn State Offensive Guard (11-1-25):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/olaivavega-ioane-nfl-draft-week-10-2025/

Olaivavega Ioane NFL Draft Profile: Week 9 Scouting Report for the Penn State Offensive Guard (10-25-25):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/olaivavega-ioane-nfl-draft-week-9-2025/

Penn State OL Cooper Cousins back, starting guard out vs. Iowa (Left guard Vega Ioane is listed as "out" on the Nittany Lions' availability report. Rotational defensive end Jaylen Harvey also has an "out" designation.) (10-18-25):  https://www.psucollegian.com/football/penn-state-ol-cooper-cousins-back-starting-guard-out-vs-iowa/article_58577ad3-4dd9-4377-b7e2-32dba36140ff.html

College Football: 2025 Midseason All-America Team (Left Guard: Olaivavega Ioane, Penn State - Ioane leads all guards in America with a 92.0 PFF pass-blocking grade this season, as the redshirt junior has only given up one pressure across 170 pass-blocking snaps so far. His 76.0 PFF run-blocking grade is also 12th among all guards in America as well.) (10-17-25):  https://www.pff.com/news/college-football-2025-midseason-all-america-team

College Football Week 6: Team of the Week, Player Awards (Big Ten Team of the Week - LG: Olaivavega Ioane, Penn State) (10-5-25):  https://www.pff.com/news/college-football-week-6-team-of-the-week-player-awards-2025

Matchups to Watch in CFB Week 5: Loaded Saturday Slate Highlighting Multiple Draft Prospects (Olaivavega Ioane is a high-floor player with heavy hands alongside Shelton.) (9-27-25):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/cfb/matchups-to-watch-in-cfb-week-5-loaded-saturday-slate-highlighting-multiple-draft-prospects/

College Football Week 2: Team of the Week, Player Awards (Big Ten Team of the Week - LG: Olaivavega Ioane, Penn State) (9-7-25):  https://www.pff.com/news/college-football-week-2-team-of-the-week-2025

2026 NFL Draft Summer Scouting: Interior Offensive Line Overview (Man/Gap Guards - Olaivavega Ioane, Penn State.  Strengths:  Thick build that is adequate for an NFL guard.  Can get low, wide and strong in his pre-snap stance.  Adequate upper- and lower-body strength to drive block smaller defenders.  Good hand fighter who can punch and reposition throughout the rep.  Weaknesses:  Lateral movements can be tough, especially outside zone and cross-face pass-rush moves.  Scouting Summary:  Ioane is a densely built guard prospect who does a lot of things well when projected to a downhill man or gap run-blocking scheme. Along with football, he grew up playing rugby and basketball, giving him an intriguing multi-sport background. He has a low, wide and powerful pre-snap stance, which gives him a good first step for reach blocks and power when blocking downhill. He does a good job of hand-fighting with coordination and balance to reposition in pass protection. His wide base helps him neutralize some pass-rush moves, but he can struggle with lateral movements, such as when outside zone-run blocking and facing cross-face pass-rush moves.) (9-3-25):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2026-nfl-draft-summer-scouting-interior-offensive-line-overview-2025

Unveiling the 2026 NFL Draft All-Prospect team (First team Left Guard - Olaivavega Ioane: The two offensive guard spots are open to discussion. Neither has a clear pecking order. Olaivavega Ioane did not allow a sack last season, according to TruMedia. Fans should get ample opportunities to scout him this season as a key cog in the protection of Drew Allar and anticipated title contender Penn State.) (8-29-25):   https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2026-nfl-draft-all-prospect-team-nfl-stars-of-tomorrow-take-the-field-as-college-football-season-kicks-off/

Top 25 Returning College Football Offensive Linemen for 2025 Include Spencer Fano, Ar’Maj Reed-Adams, and Logan Jones (4. Olaivavega Ioane, Penn State - 2024 PFSN College OL+ Grade: 94.01 (A).  Olaivavega Ioane showed some encouraging flashes for Penn State in 2023, when he started five games as a redshirt freshman. However, it was in 2024, when a starting spot became available at left guard, that he truly displayed his full potential.  Having not allowed a single sack in pass protection, Ioane was as reliable as they come protecting Drew Allar in 2024. His 3.9% allowed pressure rate on true pass sets was rather middle of the road for players on this list, but his strength of schedule and lack of major lapses as a pass blocker land him in the top five in PFSN’s OL+ grading.) (8-23-25):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/cfb/college-football-top-returning-offensive-linemen-2025/

PFSN 2025 All-America College Football Team: Ryan Williams, Koi Perich Lead Rising Stars (OL Vega Ioane, Penn State:  Another reason Penn State’s offense will thrive this season is the offensive line. Vega Ioane is just one man in a talented group, and he is a big reason Singleton and Allen will run all over their opponents this year. He could have gone pro, but Ioane decided there was unfinished business to attend to in 2025.) (8-21-15):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/cfb/all-america-college-football-team-2025/

Renner's NFL Draft position rankings: Top 10 IOL (Olaivavega Ioane - Player type: Scheme versatile guard.  Room for improvement: Recognizing games.  Early grade: Day 2.  Olaivavega Ioane has an ideal guard frame and plays with ideal posture. You won't see him diving out into contact or ducking to get the first punch in pass pro. What really makes me buy into his potential, though, is watching his hand usage. He has exceptionally quick hands for a bulky guard that are active in replacing. Those are the kind of building blocks you can mold into a high-end pass protecting guard in the league..) (8-12-25):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/renners-nfl-draft-summer-position-rankings-best-interior-ol-for-2026-including-the-next-tyler-linderbaum/



College Football: Top 10 returning interior offensive linemen entering the 2025 season (8. Olaivavega Ioane, Penn State:  Ioane broke out in his second season as the Nittany Lions‘ starting left guard, placing as the fourth-most valuable Power Four guard, according to PFF’s wins above average metric. He earned 70.0-plus PFF grades as a pass blocker and a run blocker and was one of the 20 highest-graded guards in the Power Four this past season. The redshirt junior is a massive 348-pounder who can pancake defensive linemen, both when he’s lined up at guard and used in motion.) (2-26-25):  https://www.pff.com/news/college-football-top-10-returning-interior-offensive-linemen-2025
Posted by LionsFan at 6:17 PM

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