We will evaluate every Green Bay Packers rookie in 2023. Draft picks, undrafted free agents, players acquired through other avenues.
Rookie tight ends don’t tend to impact the team right away. The Green Bay Packers achieved this with Luke Musgrave. So when the starter got injured with a lacerated kidney, and fellow rookie Tucker Kraft had to replace him, there were several (and fair) questions.
But Kraft not only replaced Musgrave, he played at a high level and showed that, with his different skill set, he can execute a complementary role to the second-rounder.
Kraft was selected by the Packers with the 78th overall pick, and it seems like he is on the right path to break Green Bay’s third-round curse.
PFF grades
Kraft's first game as a starter was against the Detroit Lions on Thanksgiving. His role was primarily as a blocker, but he had a couple of receptions in the first half, including a touchdown.
Tucker Kraft year 2 is going to insanely fun. Between him and Musgrave, future is bright!
— Brandon Sneide (@Brandon_Sneide) February 19, 2024
Best Gutey draft…?? pic.twitter.com/jZ9eBdhbP5
Even after Musgrave was back, Tucker Kraft's role was still significant. And he showed that in the playoffs, with a receiving touchdown against the San Francisco 49ers in the divisional round.
.@TuckerKraft TOUCHDOWN!#GBvsSF | #GoPackGo
— Green Bay Packers (@packers) January 21, 2024
: FOX pic.twitter.com/vj2286nx0k
Tucker Kraft certainly looks like a draft hit, especially considering how bad Brian Gutekunst’s track record in the third round used to be. He is not exactly an explosive player, but his ability to get yards after the reception is insane. Kraft might be a perfect complement to Musgrave, and the Packers should be elated with what is possible to do with both guys on the roster at the same time.
Tucker Kraft finished the season as the starter, playing more snaps than Musgrave. It’s unclear if that happened because the second-rounder was coming off a significant injury, or if Kraft’s ability as a blocker and as a complete tight end is too enticing for what Matt LaFleur wants to do offensively. Either way, it’s obvious that Kraft can be a highly useful offensive piece for a long time.
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