Defensively, the Green Bay Packers are counting on young edge-rusher Lukas Van Ness to take a big step for the team in his third year.
To try to help him flip a switch, the Packers have him playing a different position than just on the edge.
Lukas Van Ness Taking Snaps at Interior Defensive Line
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Packers head coach Matt LaFleur spoke in front of the Green Bay media today as summer practices continue to take place on Lombardi Avenue.
Here is what he had to say about Van Ness as the former Iowa Hawkeye was seen taking snaps on the interior of the defensive line at practice:
“Situationally, you can do that. In known passing situations, there’s some thought around that. A lot is going to be dependent on everyone else, as well. Lukas has shown a lot of growth. Excited to see him once the pads go on.”
> LaFleur on Lukas Van Ness getting reps inside: "Situationally, you can do that. In known passing situations, there's some thought around that. A lot is going to be dependent on everyone else, as well. Lukas has shown a lot of growth. Excited to see him once the pads go on."
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> — Weston Hodkiewicz (@WesHod) [June 3, 2025](https://twitter.com/WesHod/status/1929974313026760932?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw)
Still just 23 years of age, Van Ness has his entire career in front of him, but perhaps defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley is interested in seeing Van Ness partially try a different position.
More Production Must Come From Lukas Van Ness
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The edge-rush position has not been consistent since Za’Darius Smith and Preston Smith were tearing up opposing offensive lines together about a half-decade ago.
With Rashan Gary seemingly underperforming as a starter on a major contract, this defense could use some more production from other players at the position.
Whether he is lined up on the edge or closer to the interior of the defensive line, Van Ness has to start coming up big for the team.
As a rookie in 2023, he performed okay, seeing as he recorded four sacks, 10 quarterback hits, eight tackles for loss, and a pass deflection.
Last season, he slightly regressed as he recorded just three sacks, six quarterback hits, and six tackles for loss.
It will be up to him to take a big step forward this year because that will help out the likes of Gary, Kingley Enagabre, Kenny Clark, Karl Brooks, and others along the defensive line.
As long as he can get the quarterback on the ground and stop the run, it might not matter where he lines up.