Calijah Kancey (DL09) Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports

Pitt star reveals shocking news ahead of NFL Draft

By Aaron Becker | Last updated 4/20/23

Defensive lineman Calijah Kancey from the University of Pittsburgh has been one of the top prospects at his position leading up to the 2023 NFL Draft. However, could things have changed with the latest news he shared?

Kancey said on Wednesday night that he did not get a single top-30 visit ahead of the draft. It's shocking that no team wanted to host him as he is projected to be a first rounder with some believing he could even be selected as high as the top 10.

Pitt's DT Calijah Kancey, who is expected to go in the first round, just said on NFL NOW on @nflnetwork he did not go on a single official visit.
— James Palmer (@JamesPalmerTV) April 19, 2023

Kancey ranks as Pro Football Focus' No. 13 overall prospect and second-best defensive lineman on its big board. The 22-year-old had 64 tackles, 14 sacks and one forced fumble over the past two years, earning Unanimous All-American status.

So, what could have caused teams' lack of interest in hosting the Pitt product?

NFL analysts have described him as "undersized," but he has also drawn comparisons to Aaron Donald for possessing "freakish athleticism." Expecting Kancey to be the next Aaron Donald is unrealistic but it's no reason for his draft stock to fall.

If Kancey does somehow fall out of the first round, he may be sticking around in Pittsburgh as the Steelers start things off in round two with pick No. 32 and they have a need on their defensive line.

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