Packers TE Tucker Kraft Makes Bold Request With Contract 'Standoff'

The Green Bay Packers are running out of time to sign Tucker Kraft to a contract extension before their season opener in Week 1 against the Minnesota Vikings.

Kraft, a third-round pick by the Packers in 2023, is coming off a season where he played in just eight games due to a season-ending ACL injury. He was on pace to have nearly 1,000 yards receiving and 10+ touchdowns before the injury. 

The 25-year-old tight end had a breakout year in 2024, recording 50 receptions for 707 yards and seven touchdowns on a roster that was loaded with receiver talent.

Per Jeremy Fowler of ESPN, Kraft wants a contract of $20 million plus per season. Those discussions have caused a "standoff" with Green Bay up to this point.

"This summer has featured complete market resets at cornerback and defensive tackle, and tight end could be next," Fowler wrote. "It's the only offensive or defensive position without a player making $20 million or more per season, but the Packers' Tucker Kraft is hoping to change that. He remains in discussions about a new contract, but it has been a bit of a standoff so far.

"Green Bay hopes to get something done by the end of Week 1, so perhaps urgency prevails here. If Kraft can get a deal above that $20 million threshold, that sets the stage for Detroit's Sam LaPorta. The Lions have interest in extending him, but his situation might carry into the season."

A $20 million per season deal is a lot of money for a tight end coming off a significant injury, and with an offense that's paying Jordan Love a huge quarterback salary. The Packers still have plenty of weapons at receiver this year. 

However, Green Bay understands that if it waits, the market will only go up during the next offseason.

The Packers only have a few days to complete a deal with Kraft. It's a significant decision for Green Bay to make at this point, and it may be in their best interest to let the season play out before making that kind of a deal.