Tucker Kraft took to the field last Friday for the first time since tearing his ACL last year.

Kraft came out to a loud ovation from the Packers fans as he came off the PUP list.

For Kraft it has been a long road to recovery for the star tight end.

But Kraft says he is taking it day by day.

“I don’t want anyone to get their expectations too high. I’m not going to be doing anything too crazy here for a while,”

During his first practice, Kraft was eased back, taking part in only selected individual drills.

But the goal for Kraft is to be ready to play by week one against the Vikings.

“I’ll just get phased in period by period until you see me out there taking team reps. That’s the goal. We’re on that ramp-up phase right now to get ready for Week 1.”

What this means for the Packers?

This is a big step for the Packers as the offense is looking for another playmaker.

Before Kraft injury, he was a very important part of the Packers passing attack.

Continuing on the success of 2024, Kraft had 32 catches for 489 yards and six touchdowns.

To put those numbers into perspective, Kraft was the only tight end at that point to have over 30 catches and 470 yards.

Kraft on the route to becoming one of the top tight ends in 2025 until his injury happened.

You saw the missing production when Kraft was out, no one could seem to replicate his production.

In fact the only other TE who scored a touchdown after Kraft went down was Josh Whyle.

Getting Kraft back means that Jordan Love has another passing threat on the offense.

If Kraft can replicate and get back into form, the Packers offense can be even more dangerous than last year.

Waiting on a contract extension

Tucker Kraft is entering the final year of his rookie contract.

Both sides have had conversations but sources say the talks are still in its early stages.

Kraft though says he understands and he is being patient about getting an extension.

“I understand other peoples’ worries in that facet,” Kraft said. “However, I myself, I’m just worried about getting back to who I was pre-injury.”

After Green Bay extended Jayden Reed, Christian Watson and Devonte Wyatt in recent months, Kraft seemingly stands next in line.

Krafts journey

Tucker Kraft has come along way since coming into the Packers as a third round draft choice in 2023.

Kraft has been the starting starting tight end since the end of his rookie season and has clearly outplayed fellow tight end Luke Musgrave, who is still battling injuries.

During his time as a Packers Kraft has totaled 113 catches for 1,551 yards and 15 touchdowns.

He has also become one of Jordan Love’s favorite targets, especially in the red zone.