Green Bay Packers tight end Tucker Kraft took a major step in his recovery from a torn ACL on Sunday by participating in 11-on-11 drills during training camp practice, according to reports that gained traction online earlier in the day.
SleeperNFL shared details suggesting the move was imminent, stating that “Tucker Kraft might be doing some 11 on 11 work today, per @AndyHermanNFL” and adding the declaration “THE RETURN IS NEAR.”
The update aligned with comments from Packers head coach Matt LaFleur, who told reporters before the session that fans and observers “could be in for a treat today” when asked about Kraft’s potential involvement in team periods.
Kraft, the Packers’ starting tight end, had been ramping up his workload gradually after opening training camp on the physically unable to perform list. He was activated in late July and limited to individual and non-contact work in the early stages of camp.
The 25-year-old sustained the season-ending injury to his right knee in Week 9 of the 2025 season against the Carolina Panthers on Nov. 2. He underwent surgery shortly afterward and has followed a careful rehabilitation process aimed at a full return for the regular-season opener.
In the eight games he played last season, Kraft recorded 32 receptions for 489 yards and six touchdowns. He averaged 15.3 yards per catch and was among the league leaders at the position in several categories before the injury cut short a promising campaign.
Those numbers put him on pace for what could have been a career year, building on his previous progress since being selected in the third round of the 2023 NFL Draft out of South Dakota State. In 2024, he had posted 50 catches for 707 yards and seven scores while starting all 17 games.
Sunday’s practice at Ray Nitschke Field lasted more than two hours and featured full pads. Kraft worked with the first-team offense and made multiple catches from quarterback Jordan Love, including a 12-yard touchdown on a slant route that he celebrated with a spike in the end zone.
Reporters on site noted that Kraft appeared comfortable in the competitive setting, securing short routes and gaining yards after the catch against defensive coverage. One sequence saw him point for a first down after a reception before engaging in light trash talk with a linebacker.
The Packers have emphasized caution throughout the process, mindful of standard timelines for ACL recoveries that often stretch to nine months or more. Kraft has repeatedly expressed confidence in his progress, saying earlier this summer that he felt better than expected and aimed to be full-go without restrictions by Week 1.
General manager Brian Gutekunst and the training staff have managed his return carefully to avoid setbacks, with Kraft himself acknowledging the need for a measured approach despite his competitive drive. He has described himself as someone who operates without brakes and relies on team officials to pace his activity.
With the regular season scheduled to begin Sept. 13 against the Minnesota Vikings, Kraft now has roughly four weeks to continue building chemistry and conditioning. The Packers face additional preseason action and a potential joint practice later this month, though officials have indicated he is unlikely to see game action before the opener.
Kraft’s presence would bolster an offense looking to maximize its weapons around Love. His ability to create mismatches in the middle of the field and contribute as a blocker has made him a key piece of the scheme under LaFleur.
Observers at practice described his movements as fluid and reminiscent of his pre-injury form. He completed routes without apparent hesitation and integrated smoothly into the team periods after months of restricted activity.
The development comes as the Packers continue evaluating their roster following a recent preseason contest. Kraft’s return adds depth and proven production to the tight end group, which also includes other contributors working to establish roles.
As camp progresses, attention will remain on whether Kraft can sustain the workload without limitations. His early success in 11-on-11 work offers an encouraging sign that the recovery timeline is tracking toward availability for the start of the 2026 season.
For now, the focus stays on incremental gains. Sunday marked the first time Kraft had taken part in full team drills since the injury, providing the kind of competitive reps essential for regaining game-speed instincts and timing.
Packers players and coaches have spoken positively about his attitude and physical condition throughout the offseason. The latest practice reports reinforce that the former standout is closing in on a complete return to the field where he last made an impact nearly 10 months ago.
With the season approaching, Kraft’s progress remains one of the more closely watched storylines in Green Bay as the team prepares for another push in the NFC North.
