Week 3 of the NFL season is officially in the books and Penn State’s eight 2026 draft picks are beginning to settle into their new teams.

While several rookies are still waiting for consistent playing time, four have already carved out meaningful roles in just three weeks.

Let’s take a closer look at how some of the newest Nittany Lions in the NFL have fared through their first month-ish of action.

Vega Ioane, Baltimore Ravens

The Baltimore Ravens selected Vega Ioane with their first-round pick, and he has immediately stepped into the role of starting right guard.

Ioane has allowed six total pressures, one sack, and committed two penalties so far.

The former Penn State offensive lineman has shown some growing pains early in his rookie season, but his run-blocking ability has been a positive sign for Baltimore’s offense.

Kaytron Allen, Washington Commanders

Since Washington drafted Kaytron Allen in the sixth round, he has made the most of his limited opportunities early in the season.

The rookie has nine carries for 40 yards through three games, averaging 4.4 yards per carry. Allen has also contributed in pass protection, giving him another path to the field as the season continues.

Dani Dennis-Sutton, Green Bay Packers

Dani Dennis-Sutton, the Packers’ fourth-round pick, has been a part of the defensive line rotation, recording seven total tackles and half a sack in his 90 defensive snaps.

The former Penn State edge rusher’s role has grown throughout the season, with 22 defensive snaps in Week 1, 29 in Week 2, and 39 in Week 3.

In that Week 3 matchup against the Falcons, Dennis-Sutton saw an increased workload over starter Barryn Sorrell. 

Zakee Wheatley, Carolina Panthers

Zakee Wheatley, the Panthers’ fifth-round pick, was a healthy scratch in Week 1 but moved into a starting role in Week 2.

He made an immediate impact against the Falcons, forcing a fumble on Atlanta’s opening play and recording four tackles.

Wheatley continued to see significant playing time in Week Three, recording a career-high five tackles while playing 71% of Carolina’s defensive snaps.

While Ioane, Allen, Dennis-Sutton and Wheatley have already seen meaningful action, the remaining Penn State rookies are still waiting for consistent opportunities.

With 14 weeks remaining in the regular season, their roles could look much different by the end of the year.

About the Author