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Lukas VanNess

Defensive End
Barrington
Barrington, IL
GPA: 3.85/4.00
Commitment status: Undecided
Twitter: @lukas_vanness

Ht: 6’5″
Wt: 230 lbs
Class: 2020

LPI: What schools have shown serious interest in you or may be close to offering?

LVN: I have met with over 25 recruiters including several from Big 10, Big 12, MAC and Ivy League schools. I’ve been invited to junior days throughout the spring. I’m just now popping on the radar after a good performance in Chicago area showcases in January. I’m anticipating that the offers will come once I’m able to get on campus and show my skills at summer camps.

LPI: Do you have any visits set? If so, where at and when?

LVN: I have visits set to Western Michigan, Northern Illinois, Iowa and Iowa State in February and early March. I have several other schools, including Illinois, Kansas State, Northwestern, Harvard and U Penn that are interested in getting me on campus.

LPI: What are your greatest strengths on and off the field? Or why should a school offer you?

LVN: I work extremely hard in the classroom, currently holding a 3.85 cumulative GPA. On the field, I have great endurance, explosiveness, and lower body strength. I use my length and speed to a great advantage against my opponent. I will be the hardest worker on and off the field each day. I am striving for the best version of me.

LPI: Who do you model your game after and why?

LVN: Chicago Bears linebacker Khalil Mack has always been a favorite of mine. Mack uses his speed and low-center of gravity for an unreal pass rush. Mack holds the all-time NCAA record for forced fumbles and is also tied for career tackles for loss. As a core position of the Bears defense, he leads their team to greatness.

LPI: Do you play other sports in the off-season and if so, how has it helped you as a football player?

LVN: Yes, I play hockey. Playing hockey improves my physical and mental agility. Hockey is a fast sport, as plays develop in seconds, and momentum can shift very quickly. Competing in that sort of environment improves my ability to make quick decisions and think on my feet. It also helps my concentration.

LPI: Not counting any teammates, who is the best player that you have gone against in your high school career?

LVN: Peter Skoronski (@pskoronski) from Maine South in Park Ridge, IL. He earned my respect as a tough competitor in 2018. We don’t play Maine South in 2019, but we both train at EFT in Highland Park so I’m sure we’ll get some reps against each other this spring and summer.

LPI: What is your dream school?

LVN: I’m realizing that there are some amazing football programs that I never knew about. I’m keeping an open mind as where my ideal school will be. I am looking forward to attending the junior days this spring to learn more about each of the programs.

LPI: Who on your team has what it takes to play college ball, but are currently being under recruited?

LVN: My friend since birth and Barrington teammate, EJ Darlington (@ej_darlington). He has amazing speed and skill, and catches every pass that comes remotely close to his hands.