Packers Star Tucker Kraft Suffers Season-Ending ACL Injury, Set to Return in 2026
Green Bay, WI – November 3, 2025
Green Bay Packers fans received devastating news on Sunday as breakout tight end Tucker Kraft went down with a severe knee injury during the team’s 16-13 loss to the Carolina Panthers at Lambeau Field. Initial hopes that the injury might be minor quickly faded after head coach Matt LaFleur confirmed, “Yeah, it doesn’t look good,” signaling that Kraft could miss the remainder of the 2025 season.
Further medical evaluations confirmed the worst: Tucker Kraft has torn his ACL. Sources including Ian Rapoport of NFL Network and Adam Schefter of ESPN reported the confirmation, noting that Kraft is expected to make a full recovery and return in 2026.
“Sources said (on Sunday) they believed it to be an ACL, that has been confirmed today,” Rapoport said. “For the Green Bay Packers, Jordan Love has a plethora of targets, but certainly Tucker Kraft has been one of his most prolific and favorite targets this season. Losing him is a huge blow.”
While the news is a setback for the Packers’ 2025 campaign, fans can take solace in the positive outlook for 2026. Rapoport added, “Done for 2025, should make a full recovery for 2026.”
Impact on the Packers Offense
Kraft’s absence will be felt across Green Bay’s offense. Currently leading the team with 489 receiving yards and six touchdowns—a career-high—Kraft also ranks second in receptions with 32 catches this season. His leadership and enthusiasm in the locker room have been equally important, making him a key figure both on and off the field.
Running back Josh Jacobs commented on Kraft’s importance to the team:
“I know who he is for this team and what he means for this team. That’s a heavy blow for us. A lot of guys, even in the locker room and in the huddle afterwards, felt that. He’s a leader on this team. He’s a captain and he’s one of those guys you really love to have on your team.”
The Packers now face the challenge of adjusting their offense without one of the NFL’s most promising young tight ends. Kraft’s injury leaves a significant hole in Green Bay’s offensive strategy, but with a full recovery expected, Packers fans can look forward to his return in 2026.
