Packers' Edge Unit Faces Youth Test as Van Ness Clears Concussion Protocol

Key points

• Lukas Van Ness cleared concussion protocol and was removed from the injury report for the Week 2 game against the New York Jets.
• Defensive tackle Javon Hargrave was downgraded to out due to a knee and concussion issue and will not travel with the team.
• The Packers listed four players as questionable, including offensive linemen Aaron Banks and Zach Bako-Bewele, and cornerback Benjamin St-Juste.
• The New York Jets ruled out four players: safety Minkah Fitzpatrick, receiver Omar Cooper Jr., edge rusher Joseph Ossai, and running back Kene Nwangwu.
• If Van Ness had not cleared, the Packers would have relied on inexperienced backups like Brenton Cox Jr. and rookie Dani Dennis-Sutton.

Background

The Green Bay Packers entered Week 2 with significant questions regarding their pass-rush depth after losing key veterans like Rashan Gary and Micah Parsons. Lukas Van Ness, who played 310 snaps in 2025, was the primary edge rusher. His potential absence would have forced the team to rely on players with minimal NFL experience, such as Brenton Cox Jr., who played only 39 snaps last season. This situation highlighted the team's reliance on young talent and the potential need to elevate practice squad players like Arron Mosby or rookie Nyjalik Kelly to the active roster.

How outlets are covering it

Acme Packing Company emphasized the risk associated with Van Ness's absence, noting that the Packers would have lost 92 percent of their 2025 edge rusher snaps if he did not play. They highlighted the inexperience of potential replacements like Brenton Cox Jr. and rookie Dani Dennis-Sutton. CBS Sports focused on the procedural aspect, noting Van Ness needed clearance from an independent neurologist. The Green Bay Packers official report provided the definitive update, confirming Van Ness's clearance and Hargrave's absence. Packers Wire focused on the Jets' injury report, detailing the four players ruled out by New York, including Minkah Fitzpatrick and Omar Cooper Jr.

Why it matters

The availability of Lukas Van Ness is critical for the Packers' defensive scheme, as he is their most experienced edge rusher. His clearance allows the team to maintain its planned defensive packages without relying on inexperienced backups. The absence of Javon Hargrave and the questionable status of offensive linemen Aaron Banks and Zach Bako-Bewele could impact the team's ability to protect the quarterback and generate pressure. The Jets' injuries, particularly to Minkah Fitzpatrick and Omar Cooper Jr., may provide opportunities for the Packers' offense to exploit weaknesses in New York's defense and receiving corps.

What to watch

The Packers will face the New York Jets in Week 2 with Lukas Van Ness active. The team will need to manage the absence of Javon Hargrave and the potential unavailability of Aaron Banks and Zach Bako-Bewele. The Jets will look to capitalize on their offensive opportunities with the Packers' defensive line adjustments. The outcome of this game will provide early insights into the Packers' defensive depth and the Jets' ability to perform without key starters.