Packers Push To Lock Up Star Tight End After Breakout Season

With rising star Tucker Kraft entering the final year of his rookie deal, the Packers face a pivotal decision that could shape their offensive future and locker room leadership.

The Packers have a clear-cut mission this offseason, and it starts with locking down one of their most valuable assets: tight end Tucker Kraft.

Before his season was cut short by a torn right ACL, Kraft was putting together a breakout campaign that turned heads across the league. In just eight games, he racked up 32 catches for 489 yards and six touchdowns-numbers that don’t just jump off the stat sheet, they demand attention. At times, he looked like the most dynamic tight end in the NFL, combining physicality, finesse, and a relentless motor that made him a nightmare for defenses.

Now entering the final year of his rookie deal in 2026, the timing couldn’t be better for Green Bay to commit to Kraft long-term. He’s earned it-not just with production, but with presence.

“Tuck means a lot,” quarterback Jordan Love said. “His leadership role and then obviously his play on the field. He’s been playing at a high level.”

That leadership is no small thing. Kraft, 25, has become a cornerstone of the Packers’ locker room culture.

He plays every snap like it matters, whether he’s getting the ball or clearing a lane for someone else. He’s a willing blocker, a selfless teammate, and someone who doesn’t take a single rep for granted.

What makes Kraft stand out isn’t just what he does-it’s how he does it. He brings a blue-collar edge that fits the Packers like a glove.

From his roots in Timber Lake, South Dakota, to his draft day celebration in a crop-dusting hangar, everything about Kraft screams grit and authenticity. He’s not chasing the spotlight-he’s chasing wins.

And while Green Bay has drafted some impressive offensive weapons in recent years-Luke Musgrave and Jayden Reed among them-Kraft has carved out a role that feels foundational. He’s not just another piece of the puzzle; he’s a tone-setter.

What’s especially rare is how Kraft blends old-school toughness with modern explosiveness. Tight ends aren’t typically the focal point of an NFL offense, but Kraft has the tools to change that narrative.

He averaged 15.3 yards per catch last season-a staggering number for the position-and did it with big-play flair. Six of his receptions went for over 20 yards, two of them over 40.

When he hits top speed, he doesn’t just run through arm tackles-he bulldozes defenders like a fullback with a vendetta.

“He’s a powerful dude, he runs extremely hard, I love how he finishes,” said head coach Matt LaFleur.

That kind of physicality, paired with his ability to stretch the field, gives the Packers a unique weapon. And more importantly, it gives them a leader who’s already shown he’ll put the team above himself.

Kraft isn’t just looking to get paid-he’s looking to build something in Green Bay. He holds himself accountable, and he’s not afraid to hold others to the same standard.

A long-term deal wouldn’t just reward Kraft’s past performance-it would be a bet on the kind of future the Packers want to build. One where toughness, team-first mentality, and big-play ability are at the core of their identity.

The decision should be simple: sign Tucker Kraft. Because guys like him don’t just help you win games-they help you build a winning culture.