As the NFL Draft gets closer, a few Penn State players are in the spotlight just as they always are. Among them is offensive lineman Olaivavega Ioane, who is viewed as one of the more intriguing fits for teams looking to improve up front, including teams like the Pittsburgh Steelers.
The idea of Pittsburgh selecting a quarterback is always going to be something to watch out for, especially with questions surrounding the long-term future of the position.
However, this year’s class isn’t too strong at quarterback, and the Steelers may instead opt for a smarter pick, which would try to protect their offense and maximize their current window. If Aaron Rodgers returns, as most expect, putting together a stronger offensive line becomes an even bigger deal for him.
That’s where Ioane comes in. With a massive frame and elite skills, the Penn State standout is viewed as a physical, high-motor blocker who thrives in both the run and pass game. His versatility also stands out, as Penn State occasionally put him in different sets.
For the Steelers, there’s also a clear need to get better up front. There’s never a bad time for a young offensive lineman to come in and win a starting job, especially one like Ioane, who seems like he can be a starter in the league for the next decade.
Nate Davis of USA Today considered that in a recent prediction, projecting Ioane as the first-round pick of the Steelers in this upcoming draft.
“Could the draft’s host team take a young quarterback to build around in the future? Sure. Is it the best move in a seemingly weaker QB class – especially if the Steelers want to give Aaron Rodgers, assuming he returns, the best chance to take this organization further in 2026?
“Of course not. Arguably the best blocker in this draft, the 6-foot-4, 320-pound road-grading Ioane – one with high RPMs who lined up at tight end in some packages – could move into the spot vacated by Isaac Seumalo,” he wrote.
If Pittsburgh has Ioane on the board at No. 21, I’d be very surprised. However, if he’s there, you just have to take him.