Packers confident revamped group can lead the way in 2025 as core players enter their most productive years

The idea of doubling down in the same position during a draft has multiple benefits. If both work, great. If just one of them works, at least the roster has something. But one of the hidden advantages of the model is that, more regularly than teams would like to believe, the second player you pick is better than the first.

That's possibly (probably, at this point) the path the Green Bay Packers are on at tight end. General manager completely rebuilt the room two years ago, taking Luke Musgrave in the second round and Tucker Kraft in the third—and months later, he claimed Ben Sims off waivers from the Minnesota Vikings. Now, Kraft has established himself as the starter—and much more than that.

This is another part of the Packers roster breakdown series ahead of the 2025 season.

Where the Packers' tight end room is

Musgrave was a starter from Day 1 in 2023, but injuries gave Kraft a chance that he would eventually maximize. As good of a catcher and a much better blocker, the third-rounder began to play many more snaps last year, even when Musgrave was healthy.

Kraft became the Packers' tight end with the most yards through his first two seasons in franchise history. He's ahead of Jermichael Finley, Richard Rodgers, Paul Coffman, Bubba Franks. Last year, he led the NFL among tight ends in yards after the catch per reception (9.3). Kraft was fifth in passer rating when targeted in the entire NFL, including all positions.

Right after last season, head coach Matt LaFleur was asked if Kraft could become an elite tight end, and there's little doubt in his mind.

"When he gets the ball in his hands, you feel him," LaFleur stressed. "If there's an area we have to do a better job on, it's featuring the tight end."

The fact that Tucker Kraft is so good doesn't mean the Packers can't use Luke Musgrave anymore. If he can replicate the productive and explosive elements of his game that everyone saw early in his rookie year, Green Bay can finally put in motion the 12 personnel plan—or have packages for a receiving tight end down the field.