From practice squad obscurity to a lucrative NFL contract, Cole Van Lanen's professional football story reads like a modern-day Cinderella tale. The former Green Bay Packers sixth-round draft pick has transformed his career trajectory with a stunning breakthrough season.

Van Lanen, originally selected 214th overall in the 2021 NFL Draft out of Wisconsin, spent his rookie year primarily on the Packers' practice squad, managing just a single snap of game experience. After being traded to the Jacksonville Jaguars, his path to success seemed uncertain.

In a remarkable twist of professional fortitude, Van Lanen has not only secured a starting position but has displaced Walker Little, a 2021 second-round draft pick, as the Jaguars' starting left tackle. His nine starts in the 2025 season caught the attention of team management and NFL observers alike.

ESPN's Adam Schefter broke the exciting news of Van Lanen's contract extension: a three-year deal worth $51 million, with potential incentives pushing the total value to $55.5 million. At approximately $18.5 million per year, the contract represents a significant validation of his hard-earned progress.

The NFL's current market for full-time starting tackles hovers around $20 million, making Van Lanen's deal competitive and reflective of his emerging talent. His journey highlights the unpredictable nature of professional sports, where determination can transform a late-round draft pick into a valued team asset.

Van Lanen's success story becomes even more compelling when considering he has started just 12 games in five seasons. His breakthrough serves as an inspirational reminder that consistency, resilience, and continuous improvement can overcome initial draft expectations.

As the NFL landscape continues to evolve, players like Van Lanen demonstrate that opportunity can emerge from unexpected places. His trajectory from practice squad anonymity to a multi-million dollar contract exemplifies the potential for professional growth in competitive athletic environments.