NFL Mock: Cowboys Draft Top DE Lukas Van Ness for 'Upside'
The clock is ticking as the NFL Draft draws closer and closer, and the Dallas Cowboys have big decisions to make.
While America's Team could make a splash on offense and take Texas running back Bijan Robinson or USC wide receiver Jordan Addison, there's always a need for pass rush.
Sports Illustrated projects that the Cowboys select Iowa defensive end Lukas Van Ness with the No. 27 pick.
"Van Ness deployed from two and three-point stances," SI writes. "The All-Big Ten selection blocked two punts versus Iowa State this past season. His motor runs hot no matter what role he’s playing. Van Ness displays exceptional ankle flexibility and lower body looseness for his size, which translates to above-average agility."
Van Ness would likely plug into the role that Dante Fowler Jr. had last season. Fowler Jr. recorded 27 tackles and six sacks while playing all 17 games, but he's testing free agency this offseason and may not sign with the team.
After the top tier of pass rushers that is projected to go in the top 10, Van Ness is one of the best in that second group and is still worthy of a first-round pick.
"He has some real power, he has some real twitch, and he is just figuring out what he is doing," NFL Draft analyst Daniel Jeremiah said. "I think you can -- you have a good player right now, and you can chase some of the upside with him as well."
There might be other needs for the Cowboys, but Dallas should be operating as a team that needs the best player available, and if Van Ness is still on the board at No. 27, there won't be too many options better than him.
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