Ourlads' Profile:
2023 Guide: What Ourlads’ NFL Scouting Services said about LUKAS VAN NESS:
Iowa | H: 6050 W: 272 40: 4.59 A: 3400 H: 1100 W: 8134
Redshirt sophomore entry, Barrington, IL. Has never been a starter but was a key rotational player for two years. Has the size and length to be on the top end of edge defenders physically. Van Ness is a high ceiling prospect who has flashed outstanding play in his role at Iowa. He was primarily a three technique as a freshman before getting the majority of his sophomore reps as a defensive end. As an end has aligned either as a three point five technique or a two point wide nine. He shows an explosive initial charge that creates power and drive. He plays with natural knee and ankle flexion with the ability to explode on contact. Can get underneath and forklift a blocker on the edge. Sets the edge with powerful hands and while maintaining leverage on the blocker. Stays square on the block, flashes shed ability on the move. Shows an extra gear to chase and has excellent range to the perimeter or back inside on plays away. For his size he has solid lateral agility and can sift back inside to make plays inline. Explosive tackler he can drop a ball carrier in his tracks with a quick gather, strike and drive. Makes the plays in space. As a pass rusher he’s primarily a power rusher but flashes various moves off a bull rush. He’s effective with a rip into a club to get around a tackle. He can bend and squeeze to the quarterback. His relentless chasing and second effort has produced some plays. At this point he’s still a raw talent. Footwork needs refinement as he can get locked up or lose balance engaging at times. He needs to refine and add to his arsenal of pass rush moves including counters to take advantage of his athleticism. He’s versatile and could fit in any scheme.
2022 Stats: 36 T, 10.5 TFL, 6 sacks, 4 QBH, 2 BK. Edge speed:left 2.08, right 2.02. OSR:5/43. 1st/2nd round.