Packers' Special Teams Shake-Up: Unexpected Starters Emerge

As the 2025 NFL season approaches, the Green Bay Packers are keeping a tight lid on their first-team special teams units during the preseason. However, a recent practice video has provided a rare glimpse into the team's special teams plans.

The video shows defensive end Lukas Van Ness participating in the Packers' punt team, with long snapper Matt Orzech commenting that it took Van Ness "three years, but he loves it now." This aligns with the Packers' approach in 2024, when they heavily utilized edge defenders like Van Ness and Kingsley Enagbare on special teams.

The more surprising revelation from the video is the presence of linebacker Kristian Welch on the first-team punt unit. Welch, who had an outstanding special teams performance in the preseason opener, appears to have solidified his spot on the Packers' 53-man roster. This is a significant development, as Welch was previously considered a roster bubble player.

The Packers' special teams coordinator, Rich Bisaccia, has shown a preference for using players with similar builds, such as linebackers, defensive ends, and tight ends, on special teams. With the Packers' depth at defensive end and the uncertainty surrounding rookie Collin Oliver's availability, Welch's special teams prowess could be the key to him making the final roster.

As the Packers continue to fine-tune their special teams units, the contributions of players like Van Ness and Welch will be crucial to the team's success in the 2025 season.