Is a 2023 Third-Round Pick Becoming the NFL’s Best Tight End?
Tucker Kraft has quickly and quietly become one of the most talked-about stories in the NFL this season. The Green Bay Packers tight end has transformed from a young, developing player into one of the league’s most mobile, consistent, and explosive offensive weapons. Week after week, Kraft continues to prove he’s not just a reliable target for quarterback Jordan Love, but also one of the most well-rounded tight ends in football. His combination of size, strength, and skills allows him to defeat defenders in multiple ways, whether it’s bringing in deep passes, breaking tackles after the catch for big yard gains, or holding his own in blocking. Kraft’s skills have made him the centerpiece of Green Bay’s offensive success and a player that opposing defenses have to account for on every snap.
What separates the former South Dakota State Jackrabbit from other tight ends around the league is his key abilities in high-pressure moments. When the Packers need a big play on third down or a red-zone score, Love often looks in Kraft’s direction. His ability to find space in tight coverage and make difficult catches and plays has been a defining part of his breakout third season. Unlike many tight ends in the NFL who specialize in one area of the game, the 24-year-old has demonstrated the rare ability to contribute in every phase by being versatile in catching, blocking, and even leading by example as one of the team's captains. He plays with an intense emotion that sets the tone for the Packers’ young offense, and his chemistry with Love has only continued to grow each week.
Statistically, Kraft stands among the league’s elite tight ends, but his impact goes beyond the numbers. His strong, physical type of play opens up more chances for his teammates, freeing up wide receivers like Romeo Doubs and Matthew Golden to find space downfield. Defenses often have to assign extra coverage to Kraft, which disrupts the game plan and allows Green Bay to make gains off the mismatches. His improvement in route running and field awareness has turned him from a supporting player into a true game-changer. The Packers’ offense has leaned heavily on Kraft’s abilities and leadership, as he continues to deliver when it matters most.
While it may still be early to crown him the league’s best tight end, Tucker Kraft’s name does belong in that conversation. His rise in the offense reflects not only his individual growth but also the trust Green Bay’s offense has placed in him. If he continues on this upward path, Kraft could soon redefine what it means to be an NFL tight end in today's game. He is someone who can be dynamic, dependable, and dominant. For Green Bay, he’s not just a key piece of the offense; he’s the player changing the team each week.
