Tucker Kraft’s quick rise as the Green Bay Packers’ main target is now the key story of their 2025 season. Local fans have seen Kraft go from a rarely used rookie tight end to an essential part of Matt LaFleur’s changing offense. His performance and presence have established him as the center of the Packers’ passing game.
Tucker Kraft’s Ascension in Green Bay
Green Bay Packers, Luke Musgrave, Tucker Kraft
Tight ends Tucker Kraft (85) and Luke Musgrave (88) during the 2023 Green Bay Packers’ rookie minicamp on Friday, May 5, 2023 at the Don Hutson Center indoor practice facility in Ashwaubenon, Wis. Wm. Glasheen USA TODAY NETWORK-Wisconsin
Kraft recorded over 700 receiving yards and finished second on the team last season, only behind Jayden Reed. He led the Packers with seven touchdown catches, showing the increasing trust from quarterback Jordan Love and the coaching staff. Head coachMatt LaFleur recently commented, “We all recognize the caliber of player he [Tucker] is and can become,” underscoring the local expectation for Kraft to assume a leadership role in both the receiving corps and locker room.
Statistically, Kraft’s numbers are outstanding for a young tight end in a competitive NFC North landscape. Kraft has posted 30 receptions for 469 yards and six touchdowns this season alone in just seven games, with a career-best 15.6 yards per catch and leading the team in targets. The Packers, typically reliant on their wideouts, have found Kraft’s ability to stretch the field and create mismatches down the seam invaluable. According toPro Football Focus, last season Kraft’s average yards after catch (9.1) was the second-best among all NFL tight ends since 2000, trailing only George Kittle’s 2018 record.
Local sentiment in Green Bay confirms the shift. Social channels and fan commentary have called for Kraft to receive even more opportunities. “Still can’t comprehend why the Packers don’t give Tucker Kraft 15 targets every week,”tweetedone prominent Wisconsin sports personality following a recent game.
The transformation is crucial for the Packers. They are eager to return to Super Bowl contention. Kraft, now the team’s primary target, will be key to any playoff effort. His blend of production, local leadership, and dynamic playmaking has ensured that any future offensive game plans in Titletown must run through #85.