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Kraft aims for unrestricted Week 1 return after ACL rehab

ESPN NFL •
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Packers tight end Tucker Kraft told reporters he feels great after rehabbing a torn ACL and expects to play the season opener without a pitch count. The 2023 third‑round pick logged 32 catches for 489 yards and six touchdowns before the injury on Nov. 2. Kraft believes his conditioning in camp will earn him a full official role from Week 1.

Kraft credited an aggressive three‑month rehab for minimal swelling and strong quad health, even hitting 21.5 mph in recent runs. He noted the staff’s effort helped him surpass expectations, contrasting his recovery with teammate Za’Darius Parsons, who tore both ACL and meniscus and likely misses the start. Green Bay typically waits nine months for returnees, making Kraft’s timeline unusual.

Entering the final year of his rookie contract, Kraft signaled intentions to stay in Green and Green Bay, hinting at extension talks with the front office. He described the Packers’ green and gold as his lifelong identity and said his agent will negotiate soon. With a healthy Kraft, the team retains a rare tight end who combined 30‑plus catches and 15‑yard averages through Week 9.