Green Bay Packers linebacker Lukas Van Ness. © Wm. Glasheen USA TODAY NETWORK-Wisconsin / USA TODAY NETWORK

Packers' potential 'bust' faces uphill climb to shedding label once and for all

Originally posted on WI Sports Heroics | By Matt Lombardo | Last updated Jun 19, 2025 4:40 PM ET

It might be now or never for Packers edge-rusher Lukas Van Ness.

Seeing Rashan Gary emerge as the focal point of a Packers pass rush that is looking for consistency and a disruptive second option in 2025, the clock might be ticking both on Van Ness’s opportunity to secure a starting job as well as his future in Green Bay.

The 2025 season represents Van Ness’ best chance to shed the label of being a “bust,” after posting just seven sacks since being chosen No. 13 overall by the Packers in 2023.

Lukas Van Ness on "bust" watch for Packers

Over at CBS Sports, NFL analyst Cody Benjamin suggests that Matt LaFleur opening up competition for the job this spring puts Van Ness on the clock.

“Van Ness felt destined for the Green Bay Packers even before he landed in Lambeau,” Benjamin writes for CBS. “Coming out of Iowa with a background in hockey, but he’s been more of an intriguing Midwestern story than a difference-making pass-rusher so far. Nicknamed “Hercules” in college, he’s yet to make his first official NFL start, managing seven total sacks since 2023 as part of the club’s edge rotation. Coach Matt LaFleur indicated this summer Van Ness could also be deployed as an interior defender to help spark his impact.”

With the 2025 season looming as his clearest path to a starting role, Van Ness now faces the monumental task of proving his worth and shedding the "bust" label before time, and opportunity, run out in Green Bay.