Penn State guard Vega Ioane has announced he has opted out of the Pinstripe Bowl and has declared for the 2026 NFL draft.

The 6-4, 330-pound Ioane, a fourth-year junior, played in 44 games for the Nittany Lions, including 32 starts. He’s projected to be a first-round pick.

“The past four years have been a journey of a lifetime,” he posted on social media, “and an unforgettable experience that I couldn’t be more grateful for. This family and football program that took me in has helped shape me into the man I am today.

“And for that, an expression of gratitude will never be enough.”

He specifically thanked former Penn State coach James Franklin and former offensive line coach Phil Trautwein.

Ioane has been named to the All-America second team by the Walter Camp Foundation, The Athletic

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