Vega Ioane has handled an unexpected move to center without surrendering a sack, giving the Ravens one of the NFL’s most effective rookie pass protectors through five games. According to Next Gen Stats via the Ravens Communications, Ioane has allowed a 4.9% pressure rate, the lowest among rookies with at least 50 pass-blocking snaps. He has logged 163 pass-blocking snaps, splitting that work almost evenly between right guard and center.
The breakdown makes his start even more impressive: 84 snaps at right guard, 79 at center, and no sacks allowed in either role. Baltimore initially plugged Ioane into the starting lineup at guard before injuries forced another adjustment. He moved to center during the Ravens’ victory over Dallas in Brazil, then
started there against Tennessee and Atlanta.
That transition required the rookie to take on snapping and additional communication responsibilities while continuing to handle interior pass protection. His ability to limit pressure has given Baltimore a dependable option through changes involving both its offensive line and quarterback.
A standout start to Year 1. ⚡
— Baltimore Ravens Communications (@Ravens_Comms) October 15, 2026
Vega Ioane through five games (per @NextGenStats):
🏈 163 pass-blocking snaps (84 at right guard, 79 at center)
🏈 0 sacks allowed
🏈 4.9% pressure rate allowed — lowest among NFL rookies (min. 50 pass-blocking snaps) pic.twitter.com/uixlbg67XK
Head coach Jesse Minter called Ioane a “very impactful rookie for our team” after the Atlanta victory and praised how he handled the position change. Whether he stays at the center position depends on Cam Jurgens’ availability. Baltimore acquired the veteran center from Philadelphia, but Jurgens remained in concussion protocol when he made his Ravens practice debut Wednesday. Ioane is expected to return to right guard when Jurgens is ready.
That would let the Ravens pair their new center with a rookie who has already shown he can protect the pocket from either spot. If Jurgens needs more time, Ioane’s recent work gives Baltimore an established alternative at center heading into Sunday’s AFC North matchup in Cleveland.
This article originally appeared on Ravens Wire: Vega Ioane's dominant start has put Ravens rookie on a Pro Bowl trajectory
