The Green Bay Packers’ defense is facing a significant test heading into Week 7 of the 2025 NFL season. Head coach Matt LaFleur delivered sobering news during his Monday press conference, revealing that star defensive end Lukas Van Ness is unlikely to suit up for Sunday’s matchup against the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Van Ness, who has been one of the key anchors of the Packers’ defensive front, is nursing a foot injury sustained during the team’s recent win over the Cincinnati Bengals. He subsequently missed Green Bay’s 27–23 victory against the Arizona Cardinals, and his recovery appears to be progressing slower than hoped.
When asked about Van Ness’s chances of returning in time for Week 7, LaFleur’s response was cautious:
“I’m not overly optimistic, but we’ll see.”
That statement encapsulates the uncertainty surrounding Green Bay’s defensive situation, as the team braces to face a physical Pittsburgh squad that loves to exploit gaps in the trenches.
Van Ness’s Absence: A Major Blow to the Defense
Since being drafted in the first round, Lukas Van Ness has become a central figure in the Packers’ defensive identity. Known for his explosive burst off the edge and relentless motor, Van Ness provides both pass-rushing power and strong run defense. His presence has often forced opposing offenses to double-team him, freeing up teammates like Rashan Gary and Micah Parsons to make plays.
Without him, the Packers lose not just production but also flexibility. Van Ness often features in Green Bay’s “Cheetah” package, a defensive alignment that loads the field with multiple pass rushers to maximize pressure on the quarterback. This formation was designed to get Parsons, Gary, and Van Ness all on the field together — a trio that has terrorized opposing offensive lines.
Now, with Van Ness sidelined, that package loses a critical piece. The team will need to adapt quickly if it hopes to contain Pittsburgh’s dynamic offense, led by a rejuvenated Kenny Pickett and running back Najee Harris.
Rookie Barryn Sorrell Steps Into the Spotlight
In the absence of Van Ness, rookie defensive end Barryn Sorrell is being thrust into a larger role. The young defender has shown flashes of potential, but his increased workload will be the biggest challenge of his young NFL career.
Sorrell has primarily been used as a rotational piece, often lining up at defensive tackle in sub-packages. In the Packers’ “Cheetah” look, he serves as the third lineman alongside Parsons and Gary, bringing energy and fresh legs to the defensive line. But with Van Ness unavailable and Devonte Wyatt still recovering from a knee injury, Sorrell’s responsibilities are expanding rapidly.
Against Arizona, he played both interior and edge snaps, a versatility that impressed coaches despite the tough circumstances. Still, relying heavily on a rookie against a team like Pittsburgh — known for its physical offensive line — is a daunting task.
Sorrell’s ability to hold the line against the run and apply pressure on Pickett will go a long way in determining how well Green Bay’s defense holds up on Sunday.
A Defensive Line Running Thin
The Packers’ defensive depth is being tested like never before. Alongside Van Ness and Wyatt, the team is also dealing with other injuries across key positions. Players like Dontayvion Wicks (calf), Anthony Belton (ankle), and Brandon McManus (quad) are on the injury list, though their statuses remain uncertain.
In Van Ness’s absence against Arizona, the Packers’ defensive tackles were forced into an exhausting workload. Backup linemen played over 100 combined snaps, illustrating just how thin the depth chart has become. Despite that, Green Bay managed to squeak out a win, largely thanks to the offense’s timely execution and a few critical stops late in the game.
But against a Steelers team that thrives on grinding the ball and wearing down opponents, that strategy might not hold. Green Bay’s defensive front will need reinforcements, rotation, and near-perfect execution to stay competitive.
The Bigger Picture: Packers’ Defensive Identity Under Pressure
The Packers have built their 2025 campaign on the strength of a fast, aggressive defense. The unit ranks among the top 10 in the NFL in quarterback pressures, and it has been especially effective at limiting explosive plays. Much of that success comes from the chemistry between Van Ness, Gary, and Parsons — three elite athletes who can dominate one-on-one matchups.
With one of those pillars now sidelined, defensive coordinator Joe Barry faces the challenge of adjusting his scheme. Expect to see more creative blitz packages and varied formations designed to confuse Pittsburgh’s protection schemes. The team might also rely more heavily on its linebackers, with De’Vondre Campbell and Quay Walker tasked with filling rushing lanes and covering short-yardage zones.
However, these tactical shifts can only go so far. At some point, Green Bay will need to rely on its young linemen to step up and produce in crucial moments — a tall order against the Steelers’ balanced offensive attack.
Pittsburgh’s Offensive Test
The Pittsburgh Steelers enter Week 7 looking to build on their recent success. Quarterback Kenny Pickett has shown growth in his decision-making, while the team’s offensive rhythm has improved under coordinator Matt Canada.
With Najee Harris pounding the ball between the tackles and Jaylen Warren providing a spark as a receiving back, Pittsburgh’s backfield has become one of the most dynamic in the AFC. On the perimeter, wideouts George Pickens and Diontae Johnson give Pickett reliable options in the passing game.
The Steelers will likely look to exploit Green Bay’s weakened defensive front by establishing the run early. If they can control the tempo and wear down the Packers’ thin line, it could open up big-play opportunities in the passing game.
This matchup becomes a chess battle between LaFleur’s defensive adjustments and Pittsburgh’s relentless offensive rhythm.
The Importance of Depth and Development
Injuries are an inevitable part of an NFL season, but how a team responds to them often defines its trajectory. For Green Bay, this week is a critical test of depth and player development.
Young players like Sorrell, Colby Wooden, and Karl Brooks must adapt quickly to larger roles. These next-man-up moments are where future starters are forged. If they can deliver even a fraction of the production Van Ness brings, the Packers will remain competitive in the NFC race.
Matt LaFleur has always emphasized adaptability and preparation. His leadership, along with the veterans on the defense, will be key to maintaining morale and focus during this stretch.
Other Injury Concerns: A Growing List
While Van Ness’s injury grabs headlines, the Packers’ medical room is getting crowded.
- Dontayvion Wicks (calf): The young receiver’s status is uncertain, and his absence could impact the offense’s vertical threat.
- Anthony Belton (ankle): Depth at tackle is a concern, especially in protecting quarterback Jordan Love against Pittsburgh’s fierce pass rush.
- Devonte Wyatt (knee): His recovery remains a top priority, as his presence inside is critical to stabilizing the defensive front.
- Brandon McManus (quad): Even special teams could feel the pinch if McManus isn’t ready by Sunday.
These cumulative injuries highlight the physical toll of the season and underscore the importance of staying disciplined in practice and conditioning.
What Comes Next
If Van Ness indeed misses the Steelers game, the Packers will have to rely on teamwork, rotation, and creativity to fill the void. The coaching staff might elevate a practice-squad player or sign a free agent to bolster the defensive front.
Long-term, the hope is that Van Ness’s injury is minor enough to avoid extended absence. His return will be crucial as the Packers head into a pivotal stretch of divisional games that could determine playoff positioning.
For now, Green Bay’s focus remains on survival and execution — one game at a time.
Final Thoughts: A Crucial Test for LaFleur’s Packers
The Packers have navigated adversity before, but losing a cornerstone defender like Lukas Van Ness at this stage of the season is a serious blow. Yet, it also provides an opportunity — for young players to rise, for coaches to innovate, and for the team to prove its resilience.
LaFleur’s measured words — “I’m not overly optimistic, but we’ll see” — capture both realism and hope. Green Bay will prepare as if Van Ness won’t play but will remain ready for any surprise turn in his recovery.
As the Packers travel to Pittsburgh, they do so knowing their defensive grit will be tested like never before. And if they can weather this storm, it might just strengthen their resolve for the challenges that lie ahead in the NFC playoff race.