GREEN BAY, Wis. — It was a big offseason for Packers tight end Tucker Kraft.
He got married in his native South Dakota. He also tore a pectoral muscle during his usual bench press work. As he wears a sling during Organized Team Activities, he's not too worried about falling behind.
“The work I was able to put in still before injury, and just the kind of way I left last year, I don't think it's going to affect me, really," said Kraft. "As soon as I put the pads back on, it's going to be like riding a bike.”
Because of injuries, the Packers weren't able to play Kraft and their young tight end, Luke Musgrave, at the same time much last season.
“As you saw last year, we had we people going down left and right and it was constantly guys stepping up fulfilling roles,” said Kraft. “But as far as developing the guys that we brought in, keeping them injury free and playing together, we haven't got to see a lot of that yet as long as I've been here, so I am excited for that this season.”
“I think they both will end up becoming complete tight ends in this league,” said Packers Head Coach Matt LaFleur. “In terms of their ability to run block, and then what they can do for you in the passing game. And I think they both have a little bit different flavor to them. They're both great dudes that love the game of football. And I think just to see where they are right now from a year ago, it's like night and day.”
Meanwhile, not only did the Packers sign free agent running back Josh Jacobs, they brought back A.J. Dillon and drafted MarShawn Lloyd. So, where does that leave Emanuel Wilson?
I asked Wilson about his reaction when the Packers drafted a running back.
“I didn’t think nothing of it,” said Wilson. “Just still come here and do what I gotta do to earn a spot on the roster. Control what I can control and just let God handle the rest for me. That’s how I’ve always been all my life, so that’s how I approach every day.”
Wilson said he’s using the OTAs to improve as a player.
“Just to get better, continue to learn from the guys,” said Wilson. “Even though this is year two for me, still learning from A.J., and I’m also learning from Josh, so just take time to get better, really.
Wilson said his goal for training camp is to get one percent better every day.