Home / Sports / Packers Bet Big on Van Ness: Fifth-Year Option Exercised
Packers Bet Big on Van Ness: Fifth-Year Option Exercised
1 May
Summary
- Green Bay Packers exercised the fifth-year option on Lukas Van Ness.
- Van Ness will earn $13.8 million in 2027 on his new contract.
- The former first-round pick faces a crucial make-or-break season.
The Green Bay Packers have exercised the fifth-year option on former first-round draft pick Lukas Van Ness, signaling a strong belief in his future contributions. This move guarantees Van Ness a salary of $13.8 million for the 2027 season, a significant investment following his initial performance.
Van Ness, selected 13th overall in the 2023 NFL Draft, has not yet met first-round expectations during his first three seasons. He recorded 84 total tackles, 8.5 sacks, and one forced fumble across 43 games. A foot injury caused him to miss the latter half of the 2025 season, and his production has seen a decline each year.
Despite these statistics, the Packers are placing their faith in Van Ness, intending for him to start opposite Micah Parsons. This upcoming 2026 season is being viewed as a pivotal period for his career. The organization's decision to pick up his option emphasizes their commitment, and the expectation is that Van Ness will now strive to replicate his collegiate dominance at the professional level.
