Tucker Kraft Injury Update: Packers Tight End Suffers Season-Ending Torn ACL vs. Panthers

Green Bay Packers tight end Tucker Kraft has officially been ruled out for the remainder of the 2025 NFL season after suffering a torn ACL in his right knee during Sunday’s 16-13 loss to the Carolina Panthers in Week 9.

The injury occurred early in the third quarter as Kraft attempted to block downfield for running back Josh Jacobs. During the play, guard Sean Rhyan was pushed back into Kraft’s path, causing a collision that twisted the tight end’s knee awkwardly. Kraft immediately grabbed at his right leg and remained on the ground in visible pain.

Tucker Kraft Injury Details and Official Confirmation

The 25-year-old tight end was treated by Packers medical staff on the field before being helped off with assistance. After spending several minutes in the blue medical tent, he was carted to the locker room and ruled out for the rest of the game. At first, the team had listed him as “questionable” to return, but the diagnosis later took a grim turn.

NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reported that initial tests suggested Kraft had torn his ACL. Packers head coach Matt LaFleur later confirmed postgame that the injury “does not look good,” effectively signaling the end of Kraft’s 2025 campaign. It’s a major blow for Green Bay, as the third-year player had been developing into one of Jordan Love’s key offensive weapons, recording two catches for 20 yards before exiting.

The Packers confirmed on Monday that Kraft will undergo surgery in the coming days and begin the lengthy rehabilitation process, typically expected to last between 8 to 10 months. This timeline would put his return date around the start of training camp in 2026, depending on his recovery progress.

Impact on Packers’ Depth Chart and Offensive Plans

With Tucker Kraft sidelined, Luke Musgrave is expected to take over as the primary tight end. Musgrave, drafted ahead of Kraft in 2023, has mostly played a rotational role this season with six catches for 54 yards entering Week 9. Behind him, John FitzPatrick will serve as the secondary option, while practice squad member Josh Whyle could be promoted to the active roster to add depth.

Kraft’s absence leaves a noticeable gap in Green Bay’s offensive playbook, particularly in two-tight-end sets that had become a staple of LaFleur’s system. The Packers have relied heavily on Kraft’s versatility as both a blocker and a reliable short-yardage receiver. Without him, Green Bay may lean more on its wide receiver corps and running backs for intermediate routes.

For fantasy football managers, Kraft’s season-ending injury means Musgrave’s value could rise significantly in the coming weeks. His snap count and target share are expected to increase as the Packers look for consistency in the passing game.

Coach and Player Reactions

Head coach Matt LaFleur expressed disappointment following the diagnosis, saying, “It’s tough to see a guy like Tucker go down. He’s worked incredibly hard and has been a big part of what we do offensively. We’ll support him every step of the way.”

Several of Kraft’s teammates, including quarterback Jordan Love, shared messages of encouragement on social media, emphasizing his importance in the locker room and the team’s confidence in his return next season.

The Packers, now sitting below .500, will need to adjust quickly as they prepare for their Week 10 matchup. Losing Tucker Kraft for the season adds another hurdle to their playoff aspirations, but the team remains optimistic about the next-man-up mentality heading into the second half of the year.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What is the latest Tucker Kraft injury update?

Tucker Kraft tore his right ACL during Week 9 against the Panthers and will miss the rest of the 2025 season, according to the Packers and multiple reports.

Q2: How long will Tucker Kraft be out?

Recovery from an ACL tear generally takes 8–10 months, meaning Kraft could return around training camp in 2026 if rehab goes smoothly.

Q3: Who will replace Tucker Kraft at tight end?

Luke Musgrave will take over as the starting tight end for Green Bay, with John FitzPatrick and Josh Whyle providing depth.

Q4: How does Tucker Kraft’s injury affect fantasy football?

Fantasy managers should consider adding Luke Musgrave, who will see increased playing time and targets following Kraft’s injury.

Q5: What did Matt LaFleur say about Tucker Kraft’s injury?

LaFleur told reporters that Kraft’s knee injury “does not look good” and praised his effort and importance to the team.