Iowa’s power-based wrecking ball with first-round juice
Van Ness was a high-impact Iowa edge defender whose 2022 season featured 33 pressures, 8.5 tackles for loss, and 7 sacks, plus a signature two blocked punts against Iowa State[1][2]. What made him special wasn’t just production — it was his rare size-power combo, relentless motor, and ability to line up inside or outside, though scouts also noted he was still raw with limited pass-rush counters and only two years of college football experience[1][2][3]. If a team wants a disruptive, high-upside DL who plays angry and can ruin special teams, he fits the bill; if it needs a polished technician, patience is required[1][3].
