Lukas Van Ness - EDGE - Iowa

Well, sort of an edge

Van Ness has to be the highest regarded draft prospect that never started a college game in NFL history.

Iowa moved Van Ness all over the defensive line. Labeled as an edge rusher now, Van Ness was the self-described “smallest defensive tackle in the Big 10” in 2021.

He still was able to be produce in ‘21, putting up a team-leading seven sacks while playing in a rotational role and perhaps a bit out of position. This year he was listed and played more as a defensive end, although he still kicked inside plenty.

But despite his growing media hype, it was always the seniors John Waggoner and Joe Evans who got to start.

It’s interesting Iowa never played him like he was a superstar. That doesn’t mean everything, for sure. Florida didn’t make Dameon Pierce their bellcow back, even though there were shades of Beast Mode every time he touched the ball. Pierce ended up being a great pick.

It’s just something to keep in mind. Not one start. Very interesting indeed.

Anyway, let’s get to some film.