Penn State guard Vega Ioane is the overwhelming favorite among draft pundits to be the Ravens’ choice with the 14th overall pick.
However, ESPN draft expert Mel Kiper Jr. loves the versatility of Utah offensive lineman Spencer Fano. On an upcoming episode of “The Lounge” podcast, Kiper gave the nod to Fano over Ioane if both are available at No. 14.
Kiper views Fano as an immediate starter at guard who would help solidify Baltimore’s entire offensive line.
“That offensive guard spot was so problematic,” Kiper said. “We saw it affect even [Tyler] Linderbaum, it affected [Roger] Rosengarten. Even [Ronnie] Stanley was impacted by it. When your guard play is struggling, everybody’s off.”
Fano played left tackle in 2023 and made the switch to right tackle for the past two seasons at Utah. He measured the shortest arms of any tackle at the Combine at 32 1/8 inches, leaving many to believe he could best project along the interior.
Kiper believes the 6-foot-6, 311-pound Fano can play guard, tackle, or center in the NFL, adding to his value.
“Spencer Fano could be that right tackle if you have an injury, say a Rosengarten got hurt,” Kiper said. “You plug him in. Guard spot, immediate starter, and center, I don’t rule that out for him.”