Packers TE Tucker Kraft returns to 11-on-11 drills

Green Bay Packers tight end Tucker Kraft joined 11-on-11 team drills during Sunday’s practice, a key step in his return from an ACL tear suffered last season. Officials said it was the second-year player’s first time taking part in full-team work since the injury, shifting him from individual rehabilitation into football activity that is closer to game conditions.

Full-team periods are widely treated inside the league as a major checkpoint because they stress a player’s movement, timing, and ability to handle the pace of live reps. Kraft’s participation on Sunday is also being viewed as supportive of his chances to be available for the Week 1 regular-season opener, a target that has been referenced in connection with his recovery timeline.

How Sunday’s practice compared with Matt LaFleur’s earlier marker Head coach Matt LaFleur had previously pointed to Head coach Matt LaFleur had previously pointed to the August 26 joint practice with the Arizona Cardinals as a potential point for Kraft to ramp up his participation. Sunday’s work in 11-on-11 settings suggested that his progression could be moving ahead of that earlier reference. The team has not publicly detailed snap counts, rep limits, or specific thresholds tied to Kraft’s return. Even so, teams typically bring players back from major knee injuries in phases, moving from individual drills to limited team periods and then into broader involvement as tolerance and responsiveness become clearer. Why Kraft’s availability matters for the tight end rotation Kraft’s status has roster implications for Green Bay’s offensive depth, particularly at tight end, where durability and consistency can shape weekly planning. The ability to rotate contributors at the position can influence how an offense distributes responsibilities that include both blocking and pass-catching roles. As Kraft increases his workload, coaches are expected to manage his week-to-week exposure carefully to reduce the risk of setbacks before the regular season begins. That process can include controlled practice reps, gradual increases in more competitive situations, and ongoing evaluation of how he responds as participation expands.

Contract timing and the focus on sustained availability

Kraft’s return also comes as he approaches the Kraft’s return also comes as he approaches the final year of his rookie contract. In that context, analysts have tied the importance of getting back on the field—and remaining available—to how he can demonstrate long-term value to the club before any extension discussions gain momentum.

For now, his re-entry into full-team drills leaves him positioned to compete for a role in the early-season offensive rotation. The unresolved issue is how quickly conditioning and comfort in team periods translate into dependable week-to-week readiness as the opener approaches.