Ben VanSumeren spent the offseason recovering from a torn ACL to make the Philadelphia Eagles’ 53-man roster.
The former Michigan State standout didn’t even make it to the first snap of the 2025 season before suffering another potentially serious injury in Thursday’s game against the Cowboys.
VanSumeren, a former undrafted free agent who switched from linebacker to fullback last year, was on the opening kickoff team and engaged in a block when he immediately grabbed at his right knee before collapsing to the ground. He appeared upset while talking to trainers (no professional lip reader needed to relay his thoughts) before being carted off the field.
The severity of the injury is still unknown but VanSumeren was quickly ruled out for the game.
While VanSumeren was still being looked at by medical staff, star Eagles defensive tackle Jalen Carter was ejected for appearing to spit on Dallas quarterback Dak Prescott. Far from an ideal start to the season for the defending Super Bowl champs.
A former star at Essexville-Garber High School, VanSumeren spent three seasons at Michigan before transferring to Michigan State in 2021. He posted career highs with 81 tackles and two sacks as a senior and went undrafted in 2023. A freakish pro day helped him land a spot with the Eagles and he has 12 tackles in 20 games with two starts while playing mostly on special teams.
VanSumeren is familiar with changing positions – his time with the Wolverines started in the backfield – but the move to fullback last season ended with a torn ACL during practice in November before the Eagles went on to win the Super Bowl. His younger brother, Alex VanSumeren, is a redshirt junior starting defensive tackle for the Spartans.
If you purchase a product or register for an account through a link on our site, we may receive compensation. By using this site, you consent to our [User Agreement](https://www.advancelocal.com/advancelocalUserAgreement/user-agreement.html) and agree that your clicks, interactions, and personal information may be collected, recorded, and/or stored by us and social media and other third-party partners in accordance with our [Privacy Policy.](https://www.advancelocal.com/advancelocalUserAgreement/privacy-policy.html)