The 2024 Green Bay Packers season saw Tucker Kraft's ascendence to Green Bay's number-one tight end role. Last year, he recorded 50 catches for 707 yards and seven touchdowns. Moreover, he became the first Packers tight end to record 300+ receiving yards after the catch since Jermichael Finley in 2009.
With Luke Musgrave missing significant time, Kraft stepped up and became a reliable target for Jordan Love. Among tight ends with at least 30 targets in 2024, Kraft ranked third in yards per catch and tied for third in receiving touchdowns. He was one of the most consistent contributors on the offense and should be a candidate for an early contract extension next year.
Still, Packers fans should not forget about what Musgrave can bring to the table. He is a big dude who can stretch the field vertically and is a valuable asset in Matt LaFleur's offense. On Monday, the Packers' head coach spoke about his expectations for Musgrave in his third year.
Green Bay Packers tight end Luke Musgrave (88) is stopped short of a first down by Minnesota Vikings safety Josh Metellus (44)
Green Bay Packers tight end Luke Musgrave (88) is stopped short of a first down by Minnesota Vikings safety Josh Metellus (44)
© Dan Powers/USA TODAY NETWORK-Wisconsin / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
"I think he's another guy that I'm excited about," LaFleur said. "The whole key is we have to keep him on the field and keep him healthy."
An ankle injury limited Musgrave to only seven games in 2024. He also missed some time in 2023 due to a kidney laceration and an ankle injury. Still, when Musgrave was healthy, he and Kraft formed a respectable tight-end duo.
Among rookie tight ends in 2023, Musgrave and Kraft ranked within the top 5 for contested catches. Musgrave had only one drop, which was the best mark among rookies with at least 25 targets. Moreover, he was PFF's highest-graded Packer in their 48-32 road win over the Dallas Cowboys in the 2023 Wildcard round. That game, he caught three passes for 52 yards and one receiving touchdown.
While most of the fan's attention fell on Tucker Kraft, they should not forget about Musgrave. If he stays healthy, he will not only make the passing game more dangerous but also take some of the pressure off Kraft. With Christian Watson out until midseason, the Packers need a weapon that can stretch the field vertically, and while Matthew Golden should be that guy, Musgrave can easily fit into those shoes as well.