Steelers biggest draft crushes after the 2023 NFL Combine
By Tommy Jaggi
4. DL Lukas Van Ness is a possible luxury pick for the Steelers
If the Pittsburgh Steelers view Lukas Van Ness as a pure edge defender, this would certainly be a luxury pick (and one they may not be able to afford to make). The good news is that Van Ness played defensive tackle for Iowa back in 2021 and he has position flexibility along the defensive line -- making him one of the most interesting prospects in the NFL Draft this year.
Van Ness wowed everyone at the Combine with his remarkable athletic traits -- earning an impressive 4.58 40-yard dash and 7.01 3-cone. Considering that he measured in at 6'5'' and 272 pounds with 34'' arms makes this all the more impressive.
In addition to testing in the 92nd percentile among much smaller edge defenders, Van Ness wowed during movement drills. While he doesn't always play with fluidity on tape, he boosted his status in Indianapolis.
What makes Van Ness a truly intriguing prospect is that the Steelers could view him as a transitional player who could add weight and play along the interior. He's already a remarkable stout run defender and the sky is the limit for the 21-year-old. This seems like a luxury, but he's one that Steelers fans are already falling in love with.