The Green Bay Packers surprised some people with their first-round pick in the 2023 NFL Draft. With all of the wide receiver and tight end prospects still on the board, Green Bay had their pick of weapons to add around new quarterback Jordan Love. However, they opted to go in a different direction.
With the No. 13 overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, the Packers selected Iowa defensive end Lukas Van Ness. Van Ness fills an underrated need on their roster as the team was in need of pass-rushing help opposite of Preston Smith.
With Rashan Gary’s return to the field up in the air because of an ACL tear suffered last season, Van Ness provides insurance in case he cannot get back on the field quickly. He could also form a long-term pairing with Gary as Smith will be turning 31 years old during the 2023 season.
Van Ness was a highly regarded prospect coming into the draft despite some concerns about his experience. He didn’t start a single game with the Hawkeyes, instead playing a prominent role in their rotation off the bench. While it could take some time to adjust to what will likely be a larger role in the NFL, there is a lot to like about Van Ness.
One thing that stands out is his athleticism. Van Ness tested very well and Zach Kruse of The Packers Wire made a comparison that will shock a lot of people. According to Kruse, Van Ness had the same 10-yard split and faster three-cone drill than fellow first-round pick, wide receiver Jordan Addison, who was selected by the Minnesota Vikings at No. 23.
Six inches taller and 100 pounds heavier, Van Ness having similar athletic testing numbers as Addison truly makes no sense. It goes to show just how much athleticism Van Ness is bringing to the table as he has the speed to get around tackles on the edge.
His versatility is going to be key for the Packers. He lined up all across the defensive line in college and if he can add a little more size and strength, he should be able to handle it at the next levels as well.
As long as he isn’t losing too much of his athleticism, adding a little more bulk would do Van Ness well. He certainly has athleticism to spare given how well he tested during the pre-draft process.
