3 Packers players who could lose their jobs to rookies in 2023

EDGE Preston Smith

Preston Smith consistently provides steady play at edge rusher for the Packers. He has started 62 of 65 games over four seasons, making 33.5 sacks and 71 quarterback hits.

Smith should make the Packers' Week 1 starting lineup. Rashan Gary is still recovering from a torn ACL and his status for the season opener remains uncertain. Even if Gary is back by then, Smith will likely start ahead of rookie Lukas Van Ness.

But for how long?

The Packers' first-round pick is off to an impressive start on the practice field. Of course, that doesn't count for much. Until Van Ness proves himself at training camp and when the regular season begins, it's Smith's job.

But Van Ness is athletic, powerful, and has Pro Bowl potential. If he makes a fast start in the regular season, it may only be a matter of time before he is pushing for a starting job in Joe Barry's defense. Van Ness's ability to play inside is another way to get more snaps, but if he outplays Smith, at some point the Packers will need to make a change.

Van Ness and Gary is the Packers' future starting combination. Can Van Ness overtake Smith on the depth chart this season?