Last year Tucker Kraft had to wait for his moment.
Drafted in the 3rd round of the 2023 NFL Draft, Kraft started the season as a back-up to fellow rookie Luke Musgrave.
But as the season progressed and injuries piled up, Kraft was put into the starting line up.
With some experience, Kraft became a reliable tight end by the end of 2023.
Coming into this year the Packers were looking to use a two tight end system with Musgrave and Kraft.
But 5 games into the 2024 season and one thing has become very clear.
Kraft is the Packers number one Tight End for the Packers.
Breakout Game vs the Rams
Against the Rams, Kraft had his best game of his young career.
With the Packers offense struggling and down 13-10, someone needed to give a spark to the offense.
That person was Tucker Kraft.
On a 2nd and 6 Tight end caught a pass that was enough for the first down.
But for Kraft that wasn’t enough for him.
He proceeded to stiff arm a defender out of the way and rambled 66 yards for the touchdown.
The touchdown was the longest by a Packers tight end since Tom Crabtree back in 2012.
On the next drive Kraft hit pay-dirt again this time with a 7 yard touchdown.
Kraft ended the game with 4 reception for 88 yards and 2 touchdowns.
Furthermore Kraft was the Packers leading receiver in the game.
Crafting his craft
Kraft has clearly out-performed Luke Musgrave this season and it shows in the snap counts and performance of both.
While Musgrave has been battling injuries and become more of a passing threat, Kraft has become more of a complete tight end.
Kraft though has been humble about his performances and still supports Musgrave as the two have become best friends.
With Kraft’s performance this season, it is clearly evident that he is the Packers starting Tight End.
Kraft lead the NFL in YAC or Yards After Catch with 172 yards.
While it might be too early to say that the Packers hit gold in the 2023 draft, Kraft has show he has the potential to be the Packers starting Tight End for years to come.
