2025 Penn State Offensive Line Preseason Preview

Few position groups in college football have evolved as dramatically over the past five seasons as Penn State’s offensive line. Once considered a liability, the unit now returns a veteran-laden core in 2025. Backed by blue-chip depth and fueled by one of the most respected position coaches in the country. With playoff expectations in full swing, the Nittany Lions enter Fall camp with experience, physicality, and versatility up front. This group sets the tone for what could be one of the Big Ten’s most complete offenses. As Fall camp gets underway today, we preview the strongest and deepest position room for Penn State in 2025. This group is collectively setting its sights on winning the Joe Moore Award as the nation’s top offensive line.

Trenches Loaded With Veteran Talent

Penn State’s offensive line has shifted from a question mark to a strength, and the 2025 unit enters the season with one of the most balanced and talented groups in the country. Anchored by sixth-year center Nick Dawkins, left tackle Drew Shelton, and left guard Olaivavega “Vega” Ioane, the Nittany Lions return a veteran foundation that played a key role in last year’s College Football Playoff run.

Dawkins provides leadership and communication at the heart of the line. His experience as a multi-year starter gives the unit stability, while Shelton’s agility and improved hands make him one of the conference’s more dependable blindside protectors. Ioane has developed into a punishing run blocker and continues to sharpen his pass protection skills.

The only departure from the 2024 starting five is veteran right guard Sal Wormley. While sophomore Cooper Cousins enters Fall camp as the projected replacement, nothing is guaranteed. The coaching staff’s focus is clear: get the five best linemen on the field, regardless of position history.

Cousins, one of the most highly regarded recruits landed by Phil Trautwein, brings a powerful base and refined footwork to the interior. But his spot could hinge on the outcome of the right tackle battle. Redshirt senior Nolan Rucci and redshirt sophomore Anthony Donkoh are locked in competition for the job at tackle. This battle may not be settled until the final weeks of camp. If Rucci holds onto the role he finished 2024 with, Donkoh, who started at right tackle before a late-season injury, could shift inside and push Cousins for the right guard spot.

Position Battles Loom on the Right Side

The battle at right tackle will be one of the most-watched position competitions in Happy Valley. Donkoh opened 2024 as the starter and was an emerging force before an injury late in the year halted his momentum. His frame (6′-5″, 330-plus pounds) and powerful run-blocking style make him an ideal fit for short-yardage and gap schemes. He surrendered minimal pressure before his injury, showing improved technique in pass protection.

Rucci stepped in after Donkoh’s absence and thrived during Penn State’s postseason push. At 6′-8″, the former five-star recruit brings elite length and balance, which allowed him to neutralize some of the Big Ten’s top edge rushers late last season. His strong performance during the Big Ten title game and playoff run has earned him a legitimate chance to secure the starting job.

Donkoh could slide inside if Rucci locks down the tackle position. Coaches believe Donkoh’s skill set could translate well to guard, creating an intriguing battle between him and Cousins. Penn State’s strategy is clear: field the best five linemen, regardless of position history.

Future Talent at Tackle

Penn State’s tackle depth may be its most promising in years. J’ven Williams, a former five-star recruit, is expected to be the first tackle off the bench. Williams’ athletic profile and explosive movement skills are already drawing comparisons to former first-rounder Olu Fashanu.

Behind him, redshirt freshmen Eagan Boyer and Garrett Sexton are developing into future contributors. Both are tall, long-armed tackles who are adding strength and refining technique under Trautwein’s tutelage. True freshman Malachi Goodman, one of the top offensive line recruits in the 2025 class, will likely redshirt this Fall but projects as a long-term cornerstone.

Depth in the Interior

The guard rotation is deeper than in past seasons. Alongside Cousins and Ioane, the addition of Texas A&M transfer TJ Shanahan gives the Nittany Lions another mauler with SEC experience. Shanahan, a former top recruit, thrives in the run game and adds an edge to the interior competition. Sophomore Alex Birchmeier remains an intriguing prospect. His athleticism and quick feet make him a potential swing guard who could step in for either starter. Chimdy Onoh is also progressing after a developmental year.

At center, Dawkins is entrenched as the starter, but redshirt junior Dominic Rulli has quietly become a dependable reserve. Interior flexibility from Cousins, who can also play center, provides extra security.

The Trautwein Standard

Since arriving in 2020, offensive line coach Trautwein has redefined Penn State’s approach up front. His focus on technical precision, physical dominance, and relentless preparation has transformed the position group into a strength. Trautwein’s players are not only better in pass protection but also consistently create running lanes for Kaytron Allen and Nicholas Singleton.

His influence is seen in the recruitment of elite talent like Williams, Birchmeier, and Sexton, as well as in the development of veterans like Dawkins and Shelton. This 2025 group may be his deepest yet, blending seasoned starters with high-upside underclassmen.

Outlook for 2025

Penn State’s offense relies heavily on balance, and this line is built to deliver. With Drew Allar entering his final season, clean protection and a strong run game will be crucial. The combination of veteran leadership, competition at key spots, and young depth gives the Lions the kind of offensive line they have long sought.

If the right tackle battle resolves smoothly and the interior stays healthy, this group could be among the top units in the country. It has the size, strength, and cohesion to dictate games in both Big Ten play and the postseason.