Five Things to Know About Vega Ioane
Baltimore Ravens • • sports
Key Points:
- The Baltimore Ravens selected Penn State guard Vega Ioane with the No. 14 overall pick in the first round of the NFL Draft, aiming to strengthen their interior offensive line and improve protection for quarterback Lamar Jackson.
- Ioane did not allow a sack or draw any penalties during his two years as a starter at Penn State, showcasing strong pass protection skills that could help reduce the pressure Jackson faced last season.
- After losing 20 pounds to enhance his mobility, Ioane combines power and quickness, excelling as a straight-ahead blocker and pulling guard, with the ability to deliver punishing blocks in both pass and run games.
- Born in American Samoa and starting football only in ninth grade, Ioane has rapidly developed into a first-round talent at age 22, with many scouts projecting him as a future Pro Bowl player due to his growth potential.
- Ioane is just the second guard the Ravens have ever taken in the first round, and his large, supportive family was present for the draft, highlighting his strong personal background and commitment to academics and football.
