Lukas Van Ness gave Green Bay Packers fans a closer look at his life away from football by answering some of the internet’s most-searched questions during the NFL offseason. From discussing his strength and favorite meal to sharing personal stories about surfing, friendships and memorable career moments, the young linebacker offered insight into the personality behind one of the Packers’ rising defensive players.
One of the most popular questions centered on Van Ness’ strength in the weight room. The edge rusher estimated that he can bench press approximately 375 pounds while joking that his long arms make the exercise more challenging. His answer reinforced the combination of size, power and athleticism that made him a first-round draft pick and continues to fuel expectations for a breakout season in Green Bay’s defense.
Green Bay Packers, Luka Van Ness
Jun 11, 2025; Green Bay, WI, USA; Green Bay Packers defensive end Lukas Van Ness (90) participates in the team’s minicamp at Ray Nitschke Field. Mandatory Credit: Benny Sieu-Imagn Images
Van Ness also surprised some fans by revealing his passion for surfing. Growing up in the Midwest, he learned by surfing behind boats on a Wisconsin lake before expanding the hobby while training in California during the offseason. Since arriving on the West Coast for workouts, he has taken advantage of opportunities to surf in the ocean, adding another dimension to his offseason routine beyond football preparation.
Another topic focused on his relationship with teammate Micah Parsons. Van Ness described the two as close friends who have developed a strong bond over the past year, highlighting the camaraderie that often develops between teammates beyond practices and games. He also reflected on his favorite football memory, recalling his NFL debut against the Chicago Bears when he recorded his first career sack in front of family and friends who had traveled to witness the milestone.
Green Bay Packers’ Lukas Van Ness Answers Most-Searched Questions
Green Bay Packers, Luka Van Ness
Sep 7, 2025; Green Bay, Wisconsin, USA; Green Bay Packers defensive lineman Lukas Van Ness (90) during the game against the Detroit Lions at Lambeau Field. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-Imagn Images
Van Ness recently answered how much he can lift, among other questions. This can be seen in a video posted by the team’s official website.
“Can Lukas Van Ness surf?” the NFL linebacker read to himself. “Yes, I can surf. Growing up in the Midwest, we would actually go to a lake in Wisconsin where I grew up to surf behind boats. And now currently, where I train in the offseason than in California where I had the chance to surf in the ocean three times.
“How much can Luka Van Ness bench press?” he continued. “Oh man. You know, I got a little excuse. I got long arms. So I would say 375.
“Is Lukas Van Ness friends with Micah Parsons?” “Uh, depends which Micah I’m getting. Um, no, I’m playing around. Yeah, me and Mike are tight. We’ve really grown together over the past year since he’s been up in Green Bay. Phenomenal dude, great friend, and happy to be in his corner.”
“Favorite football memory?” “My favorite memory will be my rookie year in my first ever game in Chicago. Growing up in Chicago area, having all my friends and family, I had my first-ever sack against Justin Fields and I remember looking up and seeing all my family and it was just a really special moment.”
“What is Lukas Van Ness’ cheat meal?” “On a good day off, I’m getting two double patty cheeseburgers. Everything on it. Cajun Fries. Hard to beat the other side.”
“What is Lukas Van Ness’ nickname? “I go by Hercules. She couldn’t tell in college. One of my teammates was having a media day and got asked a question about me. And they said, who does he remind you of? And you know, as a joke, he kind of just said he reminds me of a Greek god and mentioned Hercules. The name kind of stuck and it’s picked up from there. So, not a bad nickname right?”
The conversation also revealed lighter aspects of Van Ness’ personality. He identified two double-patty cheeseburgers loaded with toppings and Cajun fries as his preferred cheat meal before explaining that his longtime nickname is Hercules. The nickname originated during his college years after a teammate jokingly compared him to the legendary Greek hero, and it has remained with him ever since.
As Green Bay prepares for the 2026 season, Van Ness continues to embrace growing expectations on the field while remaining approachable away from it. His willingness to connect with fans through personal stories offers another reminder that behind the helmet is a young player determined to develop both as a key contributor for the Packers and as one of the franchise’s most engaging personalities.