The Green Bay Packers have made a strategic move to retain edge rusher Lukas Van Ness through the 2027 season. According to Matt Schneidman of The Athletic, the team has exercised Van Ness’ fifth-year contract option.

This decision ensures Van Ness will earn a projected $13.8 million in guaranteed salary for the 2027 season.

Van Ness’ Career Performance and Injury History

Selected as the No. 13 overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, Van Ness has played in 43 games with two starts during his career. His 2025 season was notably impacted by a foot injury, limiting him to nine games and two starts.

Despite the setback, Van Ness delivered key defensive contributions, recording:

  • 1.5 sacks
  • 3 tackles for loss (TFL)
  • 7 quarterback hits

Over his first three NFL seasons, Van Ness has accumulated:

  • 8.5 sacks
  • 17 tackles for loss (TFL)
  • 7 quarterback hits