Despite not playing football during his high school years, offensive tackle Max Iheanachor has quickly risen through the ranks of the sport. However, he has already emerged as a promising prospect and is now projected as a potential early-round selection in the 2026 NFL Draft.
Max Iheanachor Opens Up on Mike Vrabel Bond as Patriots Rumors Heat Up
Iheanachor’s NFL Draft stock has increased in the last few months, with the New England Patriots emerging as one of the most interested suitors. That interest was on full display at Arizona State’s Pro Day, where Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel took a hands-on approach with Iheanachor. Vrabel was seen actively coaching him through drills, which indicates that New England is seriously evaluating him as a potential piece on the offensive line.
Iheanachor himself spoke on his connection with Vrabel and the team on Saturday.
“It was definitely fun, he had some keys for me and it’s really kind of a big blessing for me to be able to learn from him and him being hands-on and just tell him what I need to work on,” Iheanachor said. “It was definitely fun.”
The interaction didn’t stop once the drills wrapped up, as Vrabel continued building bonds by engaging Iheanachor in conversations about his background and family. The two sides previously met at the NFL Scouting Combine, and that familiarity carried over into a more comfortable, natural dialogue at Pro Day.
“It was fun,” Iheanachor said when asked about how the relationship has evolved. “After the combine, I went in for a visit with them. So I was very familiar with the coaching staff and everybody, and Mike Rabel came out. So it was really fun, definitely for sure.”
Iheanachor’s versatility across the tackle positions makes him especially valuable in today’s NFL, where adaptability along the offensive line is crucial. With the Patriots holding the No. 31 overall pick, he can present strong value if still available.
Iheanachor’s PFSN scouting evaluations also back up the hype:
“He’s long, strong, and explosive, with elite foot speed and reactive athleticism. Additionally, for his experience level, he has an inspiring pass set and sense of synergy in pass protection, and he’s an urgent, powerful run blocker who knows how to flip his hips to stack blocks, seal out pursuit defenders, and find creative solutions when defenders muddy gap looks. He’ll be a slightly older rookie, but Iheanachor has the tools and intangibles to be a quality starter as a natural right tackle.”
The 2025 season marked a true breakout year, as he earned All-Big 12 Second-Team honors and established himself as a dominant force up front He allowed no sacks on the year and finished the season with a 85.4 score in the PFSN College Football Player OL Impact Metric, being ranked No. 58 in the nation. He ran a 4.91-second 40-yard dash, which was one of the fastest times for a tackle.
