Green Bay Packers Tucker Kraft Trending Toward Full Clearance After ACL Rehab
The Green Bay Packers received the kind of offseason update every team hopes for: tight end Tucker Kraft appears on track to be fully available for Week 1. After tearing his ACL in Week 9 last season, Kraft’s recovery has moved faster than expected, and all signs now point to him being ready without restrictions when the Packers open the season against the Vikings. Fans following injury timelines often look into ACL recovery expectations to understand how unusual quick returns can be.
Tucker Kraft Showing Real Burst During Rehab Work
According to Matt Schneidman of The Athletic, Tucker Kraft has looked “swift” throughout his side‑field rehab sessions this offseason. He even clocked 21.5 miles per hour recently, a number that suggests he’s regained both confidence and explosiveness. Even if he begins training camp on the PUP list, the expectation is that he’ll be fully cleared by Week 1.
That’s a major development for a player who was trending toward a Pro Bowl season before the injury. Kraft had emerged as one of Jordan Love’s most reliable targets, thriving in the run game, screen game, and downfield routes. His versatility is a big reason the Packers view him as a foundational piece of their offense. For more on how teams evaluate tight ends, exploring NFL tight end roles can add context.
Matt LaFleur Confident in Kraft’s Progress
Head coach Matt LaFleur has been optimistic for weeks. Speaking in May, he said Kraft “looks great” and could be ready by the start of training camp or shortly after. That confidence has only grown as Kraft continues to hit rehab benchmarks ahead of schedule.
The Packers know how important he is to their offensive structure. While Christian Watson’s presence changes the vertical threat level, Kraft’s ability to block, move, and create mismatches underneath makes him one of the most valuable players on the roster.
Packers Working Toward a Contract Extension
Kraft’s recovery isn’t the only positive development. Green Bay is also working on a contract extension for him, aiming to finalize it before training camp. The team is negotiating a deal for defensive tackle Devonte Wyatt as well, with hopes of completing that extension before Week 1.
Locking in Kraft long‑term fits the broader plan around Jordan Love. The Packers have already extended Christian Watson and Jayden Reed, and first‑round pick Matthew Golden rounds out a young, dynamic receiving group. Kraft is expected to be a central part of that core, and he’s made it clear he believes he was playing at an elite level before the injury.
“There wasn’t another guy in the league that was doing it as well as I was,” Kraft said earlier this offseason, reflecting on his 2025 performance.
What Kraft’s Return Means for the Packers
If Kraft is truly full speed by Week 1, the Packers’ offense immediately becomes more complete. His presence stabilizes the middle of the field, gives Love a high‑percentage option on key downs, and strengthens the run game. Green Bay’s young offense took major steps last season, and getting Kraft back at full strength only raises the ceiling.
