Penn State's NFL Draft Prospects Remain Strong Despite Roster Turnover

The Nittany Lions are expected to have 10 players drafted, led by offensive lineman Olaivavega Ioane as a potential top-10 pick.

Apr. 6, 2026 at 4:08pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting fragmented, overlapping shapes and planes in shades of navy, green, and orange, conceptually representing the multifaceted nature of an NFL prospect's journey from college to the professional ranks.Penn State's NFL Draft prospects showcase the program's continued ability to produce top-tier talent, despite roster turnover.Today in Pittsburgh

Penn State's 2026 NFL Draft class is expected to be one of the program's best, with 10 players projected to be selected, including potential first-round pick Olaivavega Ioane on the offensive line. However, the outlook has changed from earlier projections, with quarterback Drew Allar now likely to be a Day 2 selection rather than a first-rounder, and some other top prospects like wide receivers failing to make the latest mock drafts.

Why it matters

Penn State has been a consistent producer of NFL talent in recent years, with multiple first-round picks in each of the last two drafts. This year's class, while still strong, represents a bit of a transition as the program moves on from the James Franklin era. The performance of these prospects will be a referendum on Franklin's tenure and the program's ability to develop elite talent.

The details

ESPN's latest seven-round mock draft includes eight Penn State players, led by Ioane, who could be a top-10 overall pick. Safety Zakee Wheatley is projected as a third-round selection, while edge rusher Dani Dennis-Sutton and offensive linemen Drew Shelton and Zane Durant are slated for later-round picks. Notably absent from the mocks are the three transfer wide receivers Penn State signed in 2025, indicating they failed to make a significant impact.

  • Penn State's Pro Day was held in March 2026.
  • The 2026 NFL Draft is scheduled for April 23-25 in Pittsburgh.

The players

Olaivavega Ioane

A versatile offensive lineman who played three positions at Penn State and is projected as a potential top-10 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.

Drew Allar

The former highly touted quarterback prospect at Penn State, who is now likely to be a Day 2 selection in the draft rather than a first-rounder as once projected.

Zakee Wheatley

A safety who has risen up draft boards and is now projected as a third-round pick after a strong season and standout performance at the Senior Bowl.

Dani Dennis-Sutton

An edge rusher who impressed at the NFL Scouting Combine and could sneak into the latter part of the third round.

Drew Shelton

An offensive lineman projected to be a seventh-round selection.

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What’s next

The 2026 NFL Draft will be a crucial event for Penn State, as the program looks to continue its recent success in developing NFL talent. All eyes will be on how the Nittany Lions' prospects perform, especially Olaivavega Ioane, who could be a top-10 pick, and Drew Allar, whose draft position will be closely watched.

The takeaway

While Penn State's 2026 NFL Draft class may not reach the lofty heights once projected, the program is still poised to have a strong showing, with multiple players expected to be selected. The performance of these prospects will be a key indicator of the program's ability to develop elite talent and sustain its success under a new coaching regime.