Green Bay Packers tight end Tucker Kraft had been in the middle of a breakout season before he suffered an injury in Sunday’s 16-13 loss to the Carolina Panthers. The third-year player had become one of quarterback Jordan Love’s most trusted targets, leading the team in receiving yards and touchdowns through eight weeks.
However, during the game against the Panthers, Kraft suffered a knee injury that has since been confirmed as a torn ACL.
What Is Tucker Kraft’s Return Timeline?
Tucker Kraft’s injury occurred in the third quarter when a Green Bay Packers lineman was pushed into him during a blocking sequence. The collision caused his right leg to buckle awkwardly, and he immediately crumpled to the turf. He had to be helped off the field by medical staff before being carted to the locker room.
After his tests on Monday, which confirmed Kraft had torn the ACL in his right knee, coach Matt LaFleur said, via ESPN:
“He’s doing as good as you could ever be doing, considering the circumstances. Tuck’s a guy that … he’s not going to flinch. That’s why we love him. He’s a hell of a player, hell of a teammate, hell of a guy. I’m bummed for him. I’m bummed for us. It’s part of it. It’s got to be that next-man-up mentality. Unfortunate for him, but now other guys are going to get an opportunity.”
A torn ACL typically requires surgical repair followed by 9-12 months of rehabilitation, depending on the severity and the player’s recovery progress. That timeline means Kraft will miss the rest of the season and might face a tight window to return for the start of training camp in 2026.
Through eight games, the tight end had logged 32 receptions for 489 yards and six touchdowns. According to PFSN’s TE Impact rankings, Kraft held the No. 1 TE grade in the league at A- with a 90.0 Impact Score.
Tucker Kraft ranked #1 among qualifying tight ends in YAC/reception (10.8)
#1 in total YAC (344 yards)
#2 in yards per reception (15.3)
Now, it’s up to Luke Musgrave and John FitzPatrick to fill the void
FULL RECAP:https://t.co/P2lgoT6jmU
— Sharp Football Analysis (@SharpFBAnalysis) November 5, 2025
With Kraft now out for the season, the Packers will turn to Luke Musgrave as their new TE1. He has recorded nine receptions for 88 yards this season. Behind him, John FitzPatrick will be the primary depth option.
“Yeah, absolutely, and he’s going to have to be,” LaFleur said about Musgrave taking up the role. “Both him and [John FitzPatrick]. It’s unfortunate because, more than anything, I know how much Tuck puts into this, and he’s a big part of our team, a great leader, and it’s hard to replace that. But that happens with teams across the league.”
The Packers reportedly considered adding a veteran via trade but chose to stand pat.