Devan Van Ness narrowed down his college possibilities to Iowa and Illinois as his senior year at Barrington (IL) High wound down. The Big Ten rivals offered preferred walk-on opportunities to the Class of 2024 linebacker.
The deliberation ended quickly. Choosing a Hawkeye program that molded his older brother, Lukas Van Ness, into an NFL first-round draft pick made the most sense.
"It was an easy decision. I felt confident Iowa would develop me to the fullest, on and off the field, and give me the best chance at achieving my ultimate goal, the NFL. I'm super excited to be a part of the Hawkeye defense and looking forward to winning many games," he said.
Butler, in the FCS, and Division II Minnesota-Mankato offered Devan Van Ness scholarships. While he appreciated those opportunities, he chose to challenge himself at the game's highest level.
"Throughout my recruiting process, I always had the dream of playing at Iowa. Iowa is not only an incredible football program but known for developing under-recruited guys. Everyone I met during the process, including coaches, staff and teammates, all had nothing but positive words," he said.
Devan received an up-close look at the Hawkeyes while Lukas shined with them from '20-22. Then the Green Bay Packers made him the No. 13 overall pick in last April's NFL Draft. So, too, did his parents, Leanna and Jason Van Ness.
"It’s been a very cool experience to watch Lukas achieve his dreams. Although I wish we could’ve played together, I'm very happy he’s a Packer," Devan said.
"I remember his high school recruiting process like yesterday and it’s crazy how fast time has gone by. He’s been a great resource through this process, and I’m excited for his help through my own journey. It’s been awesome to follow his footsteps and now leave my own legacy. My family and I are very grateful for the opportunity to continue to be Hawkeyes."
Devan Van Ness (6-1, 220) committed to the Hawkeyes as an inside linebacker. Per Max Preps, he racked up 78 tackles (64 solo, 30.0 for loss) with 16.0 sacks and 30 QB hurries. He also blocked a field-goal attempt. He enrolled at Iowa in January.
As you can witness watching his senior season highlights, Devan Van Ness created problems for opponents with his explosiveness off the edge. He did so while under control and with sound tackling technique.
"I'm very fortunate to be raised in a great community that set me up for success. My high school football head coach, Joe Sanchez, has been a father figure and great role model. He instilled many values and morals of work ethic that I’ll never forget," he said.
"The support from teachers, friends, and family has been nothing short of amazing. I'm super blessed to be behind their support."
That support along with foundation formed at home made the Hawkeyes attractive.
"Iowa resonates very similar to the way I was raised. I grew up with three siblings and everything was always a competition. Iowa is a blue-collar program where everyone has equal opportunity, walk-on or scholarship. The competition is unmatched, and it truly brings out the best in everyone. I appreciate how straightforward and clear they make it from the beginning that everything is earned. I can’t wait to prove myself," he said.
Devan is undecided on his college major. He's leaning towards something in Business.
"There’s a reason student comes first in student-athlete. Academics is a very important role in success in the football program. At some point in my life this precious game will come to an end, and it’s important to earn my degree. The academic transition has been relatively tough, but I am approaching it like I do everything in life, full speed," he said.
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