Green Bay Packers tight end Tucker Kraft. Tork Mason / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Tucker Kraft emerging as top target for Jordan Love amid star's absence

By Taylor Bretl | Last updated Oct 8, 2024 7:04 PM ET

In the Packers' 24-19 victory over the Los Angeles Rams on Sunday — with Christian Watson sidelined and Romeo Doubs suspended by the team after he no-showed practice due to his frustrations over his role — Tucker Kraft seized the opportunity to shine. He recorded four receptions for 88 yards and two touchdowns, solidifying his status as Green Bay's top tight end.

Kraft's first touchdown exemplified his breakout performance, catching a pass from Jordan Love at the 50-yard line. Once he reached the Rams' 30-yard line, Kraft stiff-armed cornerback Darious Williams and took it to the house for a 66-yard touchdown to give the Packers a 16-13 lead early in the third quarter. According to Next Gen Stats, Kraft reached speeds of 19.70 mph on his touchdown, the fastest speed recorded by a tight end this season.

Tucker Kraft reached a top speed of 19.70 mph on his 66-yard touchdown reception, the fastest speed by a tight end on a TD this season.

Kraft now leads all tight ends in yards after the catch (172) and YAC over expected (+54) this season.#GBvsLAR | @Packers https://t.co/ad0HLod7lg
— Next Gen Stats (@NextGenStats) October 6, 2024

Kraft's effectiveness continued on his second touchdown catch, where he caught a dump-pass on the 12-yard line and turned it into a touchdown, extending the Packers' lead to 23-13 late in the third quarter.

That's another TD for Kraft!#GBvsLAR pic.twitter.com/gac4hjeHR3
— Green Bay Packers (@packers) October 6, 2024

With an impressive performance, Kraft ranks second in the league for yards after catch per reception among qualified players at 11.3, trailing just Detroit Lions wide receiver Jameson Williamson at 12. Additionally, Kraft flaunts the highest average yards per reception among qualified tight ends. Over the last two games, Kraft has accumulated 10 receptions for 141 yards and three touchdowns, tying him for the most touchdowns by a tight end this season.

Initially starting the year as the second listed tight end on the depth chart behind Luke Musgrave, Kraft has clearly taken the reins of the starting role. His ability to both block and catch passes at a high rate makes him a vital asset to Green Bay's offense.

Taylor Bretl

Taylor Bretl writes about Major League Baseball with a focus on the Milwaukee Brewers. He is founder of Around the Globe Baseball.

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