The Green Bay Packers’ 2023 training camp is well underway, serving up competition and storylines every day leading up to the start of the regular season. Recent practices have seen tight end Tucker Kraft drawing attention both for his performance and for some early struggles with fumbling. Head Coach Matt LaFleur has called out Kraft on all those counts but has sounded encouraged on the upside that Kraft has.
During a recent session, Kraft participated alongside the starting offensive line, as well as tight end and running back Josh Jacobs. He made them notice him with a play of the game candidate. Quarterback Jordan Love hit him for a 12-yard touchdown catch. Under duress, Love made an incredible leap frog throw off his back foot. This play was a great example of Kraft’s knack for rising to the occasion.
LaFleur had previously introduced Kraft to former New York Giants star Mark Bavaro last year, aiming to mentor him on enhancing his game. This partnership is already showing to be an effective connection. Kraft’s made some real progress, including a well-done 23-yard reception in the midst of a two-minute drill.
Early Challenges
Though his big moves stand out today, Kraft’s early efforts were often rocky. LaFleur wasn’t afraid to talk publicly about the few times that Kraft fumbled, making it clear that ball security is job number one. He stated, “We’re capable of doing some really good things, but we gotta be willing to do the work.” Further refinement of Kraft’s fundamentals has become essential, as this comment illustrates. As he matures, healing up from injuries, he must turn into a consistent go-to option for Green Bay.
Kraft’s issues became the subject of conversation in the coaching staff’s room and his teammates’ offensive huddle, but he’s worked to prove himself since then. His resilience and competitive nature have been recognized by LaFleur, who remarked, “One of the qualities that we really admired about him is how he competes.” Hopefully, this award will give Kraft the inspiration he needs to fight back against his demons.
Along with his own personal workouts, Kraft has stood out in 11-on-11 scenarios. He was seen running with other starters and working closely with quarterback Jordan Love during practice sessions. Their chemistry is only getting better, and that may be their most important asset as this season goes on.
Noteworthy Performances
Kraft’s capacity to deliver in high-stress situations was on full display during practice. In one session, he caught a 23-yard pass from Love while running a seam route amidst a two-minute drill scenario. From a receiver’s perspective, this was an eye-popping moment, but it was a clear illustration of the growing chemistry between him and Jordan Love.
As it stands, Kraft is continuing to refine his craft on a daily basis. Coaches and players as well have already shown excitement in his ability to shine during team drills. His ability to succeed in 1-on-1 situations earned him key experience. Under heavy pressure again from the defense, Nate Hobbs broke up a pass intended for Chris Olave.
Looking Ahead
The next season brings enormous pressure under Kraft as well as for the whole Green Bay Packers roster. As we head into training camp, the emphasis will continue to be on staying sharp and doing what they do best while shoring up their vulnerabilities. Kraft’s capacity to learn from any initial missteps will be critical as he carves out his role in the starting group.
The chemistry among the guys is awesome and you can tell guys are pushing each other to be great. Even more than that, the commitment shown by Kraft and his teammates speaks to the culture LaFleur wants to establish on the floor and around the organization.
Fueling that optimism is the impressive trajectory that Kraft is on, as the team dives deeper into their preparation. He was clearly pleased with his own performance, opening up to reporters by saying, “I think I’m off to a good start.” His resolve pays dividends both for his own performance and for his position on the team.
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