Packers defensive end Lukas Van Ness hasn’t played since Week 6 against the Bengals. Still dealing with a foot issue, reports Wes Hodkiewicz of Packers.com, Van Ness is not participating in Thursday practice and remains questionable for Monday night. A return versus the Eagles seems unlikely unless the team is simply holding him out as a precaution and he puts the pads on tomorrow. For Packers fans, it has been frustrating to see injury halt a very promising season for the third-year pass rusher.
Injury has disrupted year of improvement for Van Ness
Van Ness entered 2025 facing pressure to make major strides after putting up pedestrian numbers in his first two seasons. For a former 13th overall pick, Van Ness was underwhelming.
Green Bay Packers defensive end Lukas Van Ness (90) celebrates after sacking Detroit Lions quarterback Jared Goff on Sunday, September 7, 2025, at Lambeau Field in Green Bay, Wis. The Packers won the game, 27-13.
Tork Mason/USA TODAY NETWORK-Wisconsin
In five games this season he had answered the bell. Although he hasn’t racked up sacks or registered a takeaway, his PFF grade of 74.3 ranks 31st among 119 eligible edge rushers. Before getting hurt, he already had 16 pressures. His six QB hits match his total across 17 games last season.
Despite Van Ness’ extended absence, the team has elected not to place him on injured reserve, which would require a minimum four-game absence. With Rashan Gary and Micah Parsons coming off either edge, the Packers don’t need Van Ness back all too urgently.
In his absence, fourth-year man Kingsley Enagbare has been holding down the fort. Appearing in all games this season, Enagbare has earned a PFF grade of 70.5.
Sep 11, 2025; Green Bay, Wisconsin, USA; Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels (5) scrambles away from Green Bay Packers defensive end Lukas Van Ness (90) at Lambeau Field. Mandatory Credit: Tork Mason-USA TODAY Network via Imagn Images
Currently in the third season of a four-year, $17.4 million rookie contract (fully guaranteed), Van Ness carries a cap hit of $5.5 million in 2026. The Packers have a team option for 2027, after which Van Ness would hit free agency.
Whether or not Green Bay picks up the option or tries to trade him before then could have a lot to do with his performance this season and next. Unfortunately, when the Iowa alum will have the chance to continue his campaign remains uncertain.
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