Another member of the Green Bay Packers’ 2023 draft class is expected to excel in the 2024 season.
Like receiver Jayden Reed on offense, defensive lineman Lukas Van Ness was selected by Bucky Brooks of NFL.com on the defensive version of his 2024 All-Breakout Team.
Brooks believes Van Ness, who would be the 13th overall pick in the 2023 draft, could prove to be a legitimate difference-maker in Year 2, especially in a modern defense.
From Brooks: “Jeff Hafley’s arrival as the Packers’ new defensive coordinator could unlock Van Ness’ dynamic talents. A freakish athlete with natural pass-rushing and pass rushing skills, he could become one of the NFC’s top prospects if he takes the next step as a point guard after a strong finish to his rookie season. According to Pro Football Focus, Van Ness recorded five sacks and 15 pressures from Week 12 through the playoffs, showing intriguing potential as a tight end. With Hafley implementing a ‘see the ball, get the ball’ approach that creates impactful plays, this 2023 first-round pick can blossom as a winning factor.”
As a rookie, Van Ness recorded 4.0 sacks, 10 quarterback hits, eight tackles for loss and one pass breakup in 365 snaps and 17 regular season games. The team added another sack in the postseason.
With the Packers moving veterans Preston Smith and Rashan Gary to the edge, Van Ness will almost certainly play more snaps and have more pass-rushing opportunities in Year 2. In Hafley’s modern scheme, he could see snaps at guard and even inside, given his utilize as a versatile pass rusher in Iowa’s 4-3 defense.
Can Van Ness take a substantial step forward as a sophomore? Remember, Gary went from 15 pressures as a rookie to 39 in his second year, nearly doubling his play total, but didn’t become a full-time starter until his third year. If everyone stays fit this season, Van Ness could only play about 500 plays.
While a great season is certainly possible, it wouldn’t be surprising to see Van Ness become a more effective runner in a still-limited role in 2024, and then really develop into a true starter opposite Gary in 2025.
