NFL Draft buzz crowned Penn State's Olaivavega Ioane the best offensive lineman. This powerhouse guard brings game-changing physicality and stability to the Ravens offense.
Penn State offensive guard Olaivavega Ioane received a lot of high praise in the weeks leading up to the 2026 NFL Draft.
The Baltimore Ravens selected Ioane with the No. 14 pick.
Some NFL front offices viewed Ioane as the best offensive lineman in the draft. However, he wasn't expected to be the first offensive lineman taken off the board because he plays on the interior.
Typically, the league values offensive tackles as more important than guards. Still, Ioane might be one of the safest picks in the first round of the draft and should give the Ravens years of stability at the interior part of the offensive line.
After center Tyler Linderbaum left for the Las Vegas Raiders in free agency, the Ravens needed interior line help. Ioane doesn't project to play center, but will help with interior.
During his four year career at Penn State, Ioane appeared in 44 games and started 32 games.
Scouting Report
Lance Zierlein of NFL media projects Ioane as a prospect that should become a good starter within two years in the league. He likes the way Ioane uses his core power but notes he could be faster at recovery.
Zierlein is worried that "twitchy" defensive tackles can cross his face. But if he gets a good first hit, Ioane can make a solid block.
"Prototypical guard for physical run schemes with thick limbs, a broad frame, and plus core strength," Zierlein wrote. "Ioane plays with excellent contact balance and technique on both base blocks and double teams.
"He uses his hips and hands for leverage and displacement when drive blocking. However, he lacks athleticism and foot quickness to operate effectively as a move blocker. He pass sets with good posture and a firm punch and can anchor against power."
Being Aggressive
During the NFL Combine in February, Ioane said he would be an aggressive player in the league. He thrives on competition and wants to play "aggressive."
"You're going to get a competitive player," Ioane said, via the Chargers. "When I go out there on the field, I'm an entirely different person.
"You're going to get a competitive player out of me, an aggressive player. Mentality and being the most physical guy out there."
He'll get to show those traits during the Ravens' rookie minicamp in May.