Green Bay, Wisconsin – November 3, 2025
Just one week after releasing him, the Green Bay Packers have officially re-signed tight end Ben Sims, the team announced early Tuesday morning — a move that comes in direct response to the devastating knee injury suffered by Tucker Kraft, which could sideline the second-year standout for the remainder of the 2025 season.
💔 Kraft’s Injury Leaves a Major Void
Kraft went down in the third quarter of Sunday’s 13–16 loss to the Carolina Panthers, clutching his left knee after an awkward collision during a blocking play. He was carted off the field as teammates surrounded him in silence — a moment that left Lambeau Field stunned.
Initial tests on Monday confirmed the team’s worst fears: a significant ligament injury that will likely require surgery and a lengthy recovery. According to league sources, Kraft is “expected to miss the rest of the season.”
The setback couldn’t have come at a worse time. Kraft had been one of the few bright spots in Green Bay’s offense this year, recording 30 catches for 469 yards and 6 touchdowns before the injury — emerging as Jordan Love’s most reliable red-zone target and a key emotional leader in the locker room.
🧾 Ben Sims Returns to Reinforce the Depth Chart
Sims, who was released just last week in a roster shuffle, returns to Green Bay on a one-year deal to bolster a tight end room that suddenly finds itself paper-thin.
Before his release, Sims had appeared in four games this season, contributing primarily as a blocking tight end and special teamer. While his stat line is modest, coaches have long valued his toughness, work ethic, and understanding of the system.
Head coach Matt LaFleur welcomed him back with confidence:
“Ben knows the playbook, knows our culture, and he’s ready to step up,” LaFleur said. “He’s the kind of player you want in your building — reliable, physical, and ready to do the dirty work.”
When asked about returning to the team so soon after being cut, Sims spoke with humility and emotion:
“This place means something to me,” Sims said, standing in front of his locker. “When I got the call, there wasn’t a second thought. I told Coach LaFleur, ‘I’m ready. Whatever you need me to do, I’m in.’ Losing Tuck hurts — we all love that guy — but the best way to honor him is to keep fighting like he would.”
💪 Next Man Up
With Kraft out, Luke Musgrave is expected to assume the starting tight end role, while Sims will rotate in as the primary in-line blocker and short-yardage option. The Packers may also look to elevate Tyler Davis from the practice squad for additional depth.
Quarterback Jordan Love, who appeared visibly shaken when Kraft was carted off, praised Sims’ mentality:
“Ben’s a pro. He’s tough, smart, and dependable. Everyone in this locker room respects the way he works,” Love said. “He’s not here to replace Tuck — nobody can — but he’s here to help us keep moving forward.”
🧩 A Season at a Crossroads
At 6–3, Green Bay’s playoff hopes are still alive, but the loss of Kraft is a major blow to an offense already struggling with rhythm and consistency. The re-signing of Sims represents both a practical move and a symbolic one — a reminder that the Packers’ identity has always been built on resilience.
“We’ve taken hits before,” LaFleur said. “This team fights. That won’t change.”
As for Sims, his focus is simple:
“I’m not here to talk about what I missed,” he said. “I’m here to help this team win — and to make sure that when Tuck comes back next year, he has a reason to smile at what we accomplished. Putting on the green and gold again, hearing the roar of Lambeau — there’s nothing like it. Green Bay isn’t just where I play — it’s family.”
Under the cold lights of Lambeau Field, one truth remains — the Packers may bend, but they don’t break.
