Packers GM Reveals Tucker Kraft Extension Talks Are Underway
The Green Bay Packers have spent much of the offseason securing key pieces of their young core, and it sounds like Tucker Kraft could be next.
Speaking at training camp, general manager Brian Gutekunst confirmed that the Packers and Kraft have already had discussions regarding a contract extension. While no deal appears imminent, Gutekunst made it clear that both sides would like to reach an agreement.
“There’s been discussions,” Gutekunst said. “Certainly I think it’s for both us and him it’s in the best interest to get something done.” He added that Green Bay’s recent extensions for players such as Jayden Reed, Christian Watson, and Devonte Wyatt were completed with the understanding that Kraft’s negotiation would likely be next.
The Packers Are Telling Everyone How They Feel About Tucker Kraft
Perhaps the biggest takeaway isn’t that discussions are happening. It’s the fact that Gutekunst openly expressed optimism that a deal will eventually get done.
Teams typically don’t make those types of comments unless they view a player as a long-term building block.
Kraft has become exactly that for Green Bay.
Before suffering a torn ACL last season, he emerged as one of Jordan Love’s most reliable targets and developed into one of the NFL’s more complete tight ends. His ability to contribute as both a receiver and blocker has made him a central piece of Matt LaFleur’s offense.
The Packers appear determined to keep that partnership intact.
Timing Could Work Out Perfectly
The extension talks come as Kraft continues progressing in his recovery from last year’s ACL injury.
He opened training camp on the physically unable to perform list, but Gutekunst sounded highly encouraged by where the tight end currently stands.
“In fact, I anticipate him being out there sooner rather than later,” Gutekunst said when discussing Kraft’s chances of returning before the season opener.
The Packers clearly want to be cautious. Gutekunst referenced the importance of the nine-month recovery window following ACL surgery, noting that while Kraft looks ready physically, the organization wants to follow the science of the recovery process.
Still, his comments suggest Green Bay fully expects Kraft to play a major role in 2026.
Another Reason an Extension Makes Sense
The timing of Kraft’s return becomes even more important after fellow tight end Luke Musgrave opened camp on the PUP list with a neck injury.
Gutekunst acknowledged that the Packers are still gathering information regarding Musgrave’s condition and emphasized the need for caution with neck injuries.
That uncertainty only highlights Kraft’s value to the offense.
Even before Musgrave’s injury, Kraft was trending toward being the primary tight end in Green Bay’s attack. Now his importance may be even greater.
The Next Member of Green Bay’s Core
This offseason has been all about locking up foundational players.
The Packers extended Reed. They extended Watson. They recently signed Devonte Wyatt to a lucrative new contract. Kraft appears to be next in line.
Gutekunst stopped short of guaranteeing a deal, but his comments made one thing clear: the organization views Kraft as part of its future.
Assuming his recovery remains on track, Packers fans could soon be getting two pieces of good news regarding their star tight end: a return to the field and a long-term extension that keeps him in Green Bay for years to come.
