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Packers Training Camp Update: TE1 Comes Off PUP
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect

It is training camp time and before practice 3 occurred on Friday, the Packers TE1 has been activated from the PUP list. That’s right, Tucker Kraft is back.

As a reminder, Tucker Kraft tore his ACL last season during the week nine matchup against the Carolina Panthers. It was almost certain that before the injury, Kraft was on track to have a significant breakout year.

Prior to the ACL tear, Kraft had totaled 32 receptions for 489 yards and six touchdowns. While Kraft has been activated, coach Matt LaFleur made is clear that the tight end will not be participating in team drills just yet.

LaFleur stated, “So, we’re just going to kind of get him back ingrained into the process and into individual. What’s great is when they do come off PUP, then now he can partake in some of the walk-through periods, especially that we do in the evenings, just to get him back hearing the call, lining up and then just going through that.”

During the offseason, Kraft mentioned that his goal was to be ready for week 1 against the Minnesota Vikings. Being activated off of the PUP list keeps him right on track for that.

Kraft mentioned, “The only way to move forward is just to control what you can control.” The Packers struggled without the presence of number 85 last season. If Kraft bounces back with no complications and manages to stay healthy, he is in for a big season.

It was evident that Kraft was on his way to a monster season last year prior to the ACL tear. Given his stats prior to getting injured, he was well on his way to totaling over 1,000 receiving yards on the season.

Despite the urge to be back healthy for week 1, Kraft had high praise for the tight end room, “…I know we have tight ends in our room that can play and, regardless, if I’m taking a bunch of reps during camp, our position room is going to be fine. Regardless.”

Even with the recent injury, it is rumored that the Packers are working on an extension for Kraft, as general manager Brian Gutekunst mentioned that they’ve had “really good discussions” with Kraft’s agent and Russ Ball.

When asked about an extension, Kraft stated “I think the best chance for Green Bay to win a Lombardi is with me on the field as well. … I’ve said over and over again that I’m so grateful to be a part of this organization, and I would like to keep it that way.”

Kraft also claimed, “My goal is I want to play for this organization my entire career. I feel like I was spoiled to be drafted here…” That’s the kind of attitude fans need from their tight end.

It was evident the Packers were missing some fire power on offense in the absence of Tucker Kraft last season. Matt LaFleur had high praise for Kraft’s dedication to his ACL rehab, “He put the work in… he was here all summer grinding away to put himself in this position.”

Tucker Kraft’s activation off the PUP list has occurred two days shy of nine months since the injury. A huge step in the right direction for the elite tight end to make his big return. With the departure of several Packers receivers, and with the hope that Kraft stays healthy, the sky is the limit for the premier tight end.

This article first appeared on PackersTalk.com and was syndicated with permission.

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