INDIANAPOLIS -- The Patriots might not project as a team that will target a defensive lineman in the first round of the 2023 NFL Draft, but that didn't stop them from meeting some of the position's top prospects while at the Scouting Combine.
Texas Tech edge rusher Tyree Wilson, a consensus top-10 pick, told reporters that he planned to meet with New England sometime Wednesday. Wilson doesn't figure to be available when the Patriots pick at 14th overall, but you can't rule out Bill Belichick trading up in the first round. Plus, New England could just be doing its due diligence with a top prospect.
Wilson played in 10 games before suffering a season-ending foot injury in November. Prior to the injury, he racked up 61 tackles (14 for loss) and seven sacks. Wilson finished with 38 tackles and seven sacks the previous season.
But Wilson isn't the only noteworthy defensive lineman who'll speak with the Patriots in Indianapolis.
Iowa defensive end Lukas Van Ness told reporters he'd meet with New England on Thursday. The 6-foot-5 Van Ness can play both inside and outside and also contributes on special teams. A former high school hockey player, Van Ness racked up 37 tackles and six sacks last season for the Hawkeyes.
"That would be an amazing opportunity," Van Ness said of possibly landing with the Patriots. "And if Coach Belichick took the opportunity on me, I'd really be looking forward to a fun career."
Wilson and Van Ness both will go through on-field drills Thursday. You can click here for our full breakdown of the scouting combine, including workout schedules and broadcast information.
