Packers Loaded for Lift-Off: 3 Young Stars Ready to Break Out in 2025
Green Bay fans, buckle up—this might be the most exciting young core you've seen in years. According to NFL.com’s Bucky Brooks, the Packers aren’t just developing talent—they’re getting ready to unleash it. In his annual “All-Breakout Team” heading into the 2025 NFL season, Brooks named three Green Bay players poised to explode: guard Jordan Morgan, edge rusher Lukas Van Ness, and linebacker Edgerrin Cooper.
That's not just good news—it's potentially franchise-changing.
If even two of these guys live up to their billing, the Packers could make a serious push for Super Bowl contention. But if all three break out? Green Bay might just field one of the league’s most complete teams, from trench warfare to sideline speed.
🛡️ Jordan Morgan: From Injury Setback to OL X-Factor
Let’s start in the trenches. Jordan Morgan, the athletic lineman out of Arizona, was once seen as a plug-and-play starter before a shoulder injury during training camp derailed his rookie campaign. That same injury limited him to just six games and one start in 2024. But now? He’s healthy, experienced, and ready to compete for a starting role at either left tackle or right guard.
That’s not just depth—it’s potential dominance.
"He’s got quick feet, active hands, and the kind of technical foundation that can make him an elite pass protector—wherever he plays," Brooks wrote.
And when you consider Jordan Love’s development trajectory, Morgan could end up being a cornerstone. Whether he’s protecting Love’s blindside or mauling defenders at the point of attack, his rise could be the difference between a good offense and a truly elite one.
Breakout Watch: 🔥 Strong
What success looks like: Beating out veterans and producing consistent, high-level play at one of the premium OL spots.
🐺 Lukas Van Ness: Is Year 3 the Magic Number?
Now, let’s shift to the defense, where the Packers are hoping Lukas Van Ness can go from “toolsy project” to “impact player.” So far, the 2023 first-rounder has flashed traits—size, strength, motor—but hasn’t put it all together on the stat sheet.
That could change in 2025.
Last year, Van Ness’s production actually dropped slightly from his rookie season, despite logging roughly the same number of snaps. But context matters—he played through a broken thumb that required a cast early on, and still showed growth in certain pass-rushing metrics.
“Whether it’s as a starter off the edge or a chaos-creator in sub-packages, he’s got the size and explosiveness to finally convert flashes into disruption,” Brooks wrote.
History is on his side, too. As Packers Wire pointed out, many highly drafted edge rushers don’t truly hit their stride until Year 3. Think Rashan Gary. Think Brian Burns. It takes time.
With new position coach DeMarcus Covington in the building, and a clearer role in Jeff Hafley’s defense, Van Ness might be set up better than ever to deliver the breakout season fans have been waiting for.
Breakout Watch: ⚠️ Decent to High
What success looks like: Doubling his pressures and becoming a consistent edge presence against both the pass and run.
⚡ Edgerrin Cooper: Star in the Making?
If there’s one player on this list that feels like a can’t-miss, it’s Edgerrin Cooper.
The second-year linebacker turned heads in 2024 with a part-time role—and still delivered 13 tackles for loss and 3.5 sacks in under 500 snaps. That’s serious production for a rookie who wasn’t even a full-time starter.
So, what happens now that he’s getting a full plate?
“He’s a downhill demon with speed, agility, and the kind of explosion that makes him a nightmare in coverage or on the blitz,” Brooks gushed.
Fans haven’t seen this kind of second-year defensive buzz since Clay Matthews—and the comparisons aren’t crazy. Cooper’s tape pops. He plays like he’s shot out of a cannon and shows freakish burst that translates to real results.
In Hafley’s “see ball, get ball” scheme, Cooper could be the perfect centerpiece. He’s a natural playmaker in a system that lets athletes roam, attack, and blow up plays.
Breakout Watch: 💥 Sky-High
What success looks like: Pro Bowl-level stats. 100+ tackles. 5+ sacks. Game-changing splash plays.
Why This Trio Could Shape the NFC Landscape
The best part? These aren't just three talented individuals—they’re filling crucial roles on both sides of the ball.
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Morgan’s breakout could elevate Green Bay’s offensive line from solid to top-five.
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Van Ness, finally healthy and experienced, could become a force off the edge.
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Cooper might be the leader of the next great Packers defense.
Together, they represent the core of a rising team built through smart drafting, patient development, and forward-thinking coaching.
If things click? The Packers won’t just be contenders—they’ll be terrifying.
🔍 The Bigger Picture: Packers’ Youth Movement in Full Swing
Let’s not forget—these breakouts wouldn’t be happening in isolation. Jordan Love is growing into his own as a quarterback. Christian Watson and Romeo Doubs are emerging targets. Rashan Gary, Jaire Alexander, and Kenny Clark are veterans holding it down.
That’s a balanced roster, and it’s only going to get better if these young stars deliver on their breakout potential.
Brooks doesn’t just throw these names out lightly. His “All-Breakout Team” highlights players who are right on the cusp of making serious NFL noise. And when three of them are wearing the same uniform? That’s not coincidence—it’s the sign of a team on the rise.
Final Thoughts: Will the Packers Be The Team in 2025?
The ceiling is sky-high. The floor? Still pretty respectable.
But if Morgan locks down a spot on the offensive line, Van Ness starts wrecking QBs, and Cooper becomes a Pro Bowl menace—Green Bay might just go from “promising” to “powerhouse” overnight.
Keep your eyes on this trio, Packers fans. The future doesn’t just look bright—it looks like it’s about to blow up.
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