The Philadelphia Eagles' offensive line has been essential to the franchise's success over the past decade. Two Super Bowl wins- and just a few plays shy of a trifecta - have shown the power and impact that the five up front have had on the team's annual title aspirations.
From Jason Kelce and Lane Johnson to the amazing development of late-round gem Jordan Malaita, the team has often hit emphatically on draft day targets up front. But recent developments have made the need for immediate reinforcements in the trenches all the more pressing.
At just 27 years old, starting left guard Landon Dickerson's future is now far from certain, given his many injury woes. And coming off a grueling Lisfranc injury, longtime rock Johnson presents another glaring question along the line.
Simply put, general manager Howie Roseman will have to be on his A game in the 2026 NFL Draft when it comes to adding immediate impact along the line, and Penn State mauler Olaiavega Ioane could fit like a glove.
Eagles have a great future starting offensive lineman in the 2026 NFL Draft
The sheer size and athleticism of Ioane are impressive. His 6-foot-4, 330-pound stature and ability to move well to the second level could be a good fit for the new coaching staff.
It is worth noting that Loane has shown rapid development in Happy Valley each year. There's no reason to believe he's come close to meeting his full potential, either. Ioane redshirted his freshman year before earning the starting nod at guard in five games as a sophomore.
2024 is when the light came on for him, as he earned Second-Team All-Big Ten honors as a junior. In his final season for the Nittany Lions, the Graham, Washington native, truly made the jump, securing First-Team All-American and First-Team All-Big Ten.
Having not even taken his talents to the gridiron until his sophomore year in high school, his ceiling is sky high. And as a fierce competitor who plays with plenty of tenacity, Ioane could fast become a fan favorite.
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Plenty can change from here until draft weekend, but Ioane is a key name worth monitoring. With the Eagles set to pick 23rd in the first round, Ioane has been projected in that neighborhood by multiple draft experts. Reinforcements are needed up front more than ever, and the Penn State guard could provide just that.