The Green Bay Packers lost two critical players to torn ACLs late in the 2025 season, but both are on track to return for the majority of the 2026 campaign, according to General Manager Brian Gutekunst.
Tight end Tucker Kraft suffered his injury in November, ending a breakout rookie season prematurely. Linebacker Micah Parsons tore his ACL in December, cutting short his first season with the Packers.
Gutekunst: Both Players on Track for Early 2026 Return
Speaking with SiriusXM NFL Radio, Gutekunst provided an update on Kraft and Parsons’ recoveries:
“They’re doing great. Tuck’s been in here every day, and he’s obviously a little bit ahead of schedule, just because his injury happened earlier than Micah’s did. But Micah’s such a — he’s a little bit of a freak. So I think some of that has taken over, and he’s doing really well, as well. So, certainly expect both of those guys back early in the season. And they’ll be a big part of what we’re doing moving forward.”
2025 Performance Highlights
Despite limited playing time due to injuries, Kraft and Parsons made significant impacts in 2025:
- Tucker Kraft (8 games): 32 receptions, 489 receiving yards, 6 touchdowns
- Micah Parsons (14 games): 12.5 sacks, 12 tackles for loss, 27 quarterback hits, AP first-team All-Pro (third career selection)
Both players were poised to play pivotal roles in the Packers’ 2025 season before their injuries, which may have influenced the team’s final standings.
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