Packers make $13.8 million Lukas Van Ness decision

The Green Bay Packers made a significant roster decision Thursday, exercising the fifth-year option on edge rusher Lukas Van Ness to secure his contract through the 2027 season.

The move guarantees Van Ness $13.8 million in 2027, signaling the organization’s confidence in the former first-round pick’s long-term potential. By locking in the option, Green Bay adds stability to its defensive front while maintaining financial clarity for future roster planning. This decision reflects the front office’s broader commitment to developing homegrown talent and maintaining continuity along the defensive line as the roster continues to evolve in the coming seasons.

Van Ness, selected with the No. 13th overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, continues to develop within the Packers’ system. Although his production is still evolving, his physical tools and versatility remain evident. The decision reflects the team’s belief in his trajectory and overall upside rather than solely his current statistical output.

ESPN’s Rob Demovsky reported the development on X, formerly Twitter, confirming the move while crediting The Athletic’s Matt Schneidman.

“The Packers have indeed picked up the fifth-year option on edge rusher Lukas Van Ness, the 13th pick in the 2023 draft, a source said confirming @mattschneidman’s report.

It means LVN will make $13.8 million in 2027. He will make up to $3,121,104 this coming season.”