Packers Face Injury Crisis as Tucker Kraft Out for Season, but LaFleur Sees Hope with Golden
The Green Bay Packers faced a tough setback during their recent loss to the Carolina Panthers, as injuries continue to plague the team. Among the most significant blows, tight end Tucker Kraft has been diagnosed with a torn ACL, forcing him to the sidelines for the remainder of the season. With a critical matchup against the defending Super Bowl champion Philadelphia Eagles looming, the Packers are left grappling with a lengthy injury report.
Injury Updates and Key Losses
The news surrounding Tucker Kraft is undoubtedly the most disheartening for the Packers. The injury marked a painful day at Lambeau Field, where the Packers must now navigate the second half of the season without their starting tight end. Kraft’s absence leaves a considerable void in the offense, and head coach Matt LaFleur is tasked with finding new playmakers to fill that gap.
In addition to Kraft’s injury, receiver Matthew Golden suffered a shoulder injury during the second half against Carolina. While he managed only 24 snaps and caught 2-of-3 targets for just 9 yards, LaFleur remains optimistic about Golden’s status, stating, “He shouldn’t be long term.” Despite his recent struggles, Golden has shown flashes of brilliance earlier in the season but has been limited in his impact due to the return of Christian Watson.
Defensive Concerns
The injury woes extend beyond the offense, affecting the defense as well. Defensive tackle Colby Wooden, who was recently praised by Micah Parsons, sustained a shoulder injury and was unable to return after just 15 snaps. LaFleur reassured fans, saying, “Nothing long term, so we feel good about that.” However, Wooden’s absence was felt as the Panthers rushed for 163 yards, far exceeding the Packers’ average of 78.9 rushing yards allowed per game.
Offensive Line Woes
The offensive line has also faced its share of challenges. Left guard Aaron Banks, signed to a lucrative four-year, $77 million deal, has struggled with injuries throughout the season. He left the game after suffering a stinger during the opening series, but LaFleur indicated that he should be fine for the upcoming matchup. Banks has started six of the eight games this season, though he has only been on the field for 51.6 percent of the offensive snaps.
Other Key Injuries
The Packers have been missing depth at the receiver position, particularly with Dontayvion Wicks sidelined by a calf injury. Wicks has not practiced for the last two weeks, and while he has been catching passes from a JUGS machine, his return remains uncertain. With both Kraft and Golden out, the Packers desperately need Wicks to contribute.
Defensive end Lukas Van Ness has also been absent due to a foot injury, missing the last three weeks. The team has been forced to rely on a limited defensive front, which struggled against the Panthers. LaFleur hinted at the possibility of Wicks and Van Ness returning for the next game, but their participation will depend on their ability to practice effectively.
Next Steps and Future Outlook
With Kraft officially out for the season, the Packers are turning to Luke Musgrave and John FitzPatrick to step up in the tight end position. Musgrave has already begun to show promise, catching three passes during the final drive against the Panthers. LaFleur expressed confidence in Musgrave, noting, “He definitely brings a vertical presence, and we’re going to have to put him in situations where he can utilize his strengths.”
As the Packers prepare for their critical matchup against the Eagles, they must adapt to their injuries and find ways to keep their playoff hopes alive. With a next-man-up mentality, LaFleur and the coaching staff will be focused on making the necessary adjustments to combat the challenges ahead.
