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Packers rookie proves dedication with stunning camp admission
Green Bay Packers defensive end Lukas Van Ness. MARK HOFFMAN/MILWAUKEE JOURNAL SENTINEL / USA TODAY NETWORK

Packers rookie proves dedication with stunning camp admission

While rookies sometimes struggle to adjust to the NFL life during their first training camp, others, like Green Bay Packers first-round pick Lukas Van Ness, dive in head first. 

Speaking with reporters Saturday, Van Ness talked about having a "first one in, last one out" mentality at Packers' camp, and he proved it with a stunning admission. 

"I've eaten at one restaurant outside the facility, so if that says enough," Van Ness said via Cody Krupp of FOX 11. "I haven't had too much time to explore, but I'm sure the time will come, and I'm excited to see around the place."

For the record, the restaurant in question was Plae Bistro in Green Bay. The meal? Pasta, which Van Ness said was "pretty good." 

Hot spots around Green Bay aside, Van Ness said he was focused only on doing his job in preparation for his rookie campaign. 

"Right now, this is camp — I'm kind of on lockdown," Van Ness said. "But this is what I'm here for, to play football and I couldn't be happier." 

Van Ness is already making an impact at camp, even before the pads come on. According to reports from Saturday, Van Ness received first-team snaps opposite Preston Smith. 

During one rep, he displayed some herculean strength, throwing tight end Josiah Deguara "four yards" into the path of quarterback Jordan Love. 

A standout despite not starting at Iowa, Van Ness went 13th overall in the 2023 NFL Draft. Some were puzzled when they heard Van Ness' name called, believing Green Bay would target offensive playmakers to surround Love following the departure of Aaron Rodgers. 

However, the people in charge of the Packers believe Van Ness will eventually prove them right for choosing him. Shortly after the draft, Packers general manager Brian Gutekunst said he thought Van Ness would "help" the defense in Green Bay right away, and if the first few days of camp are any indication, he might be right.

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