Packers Training Camp Practice Recap
· news
The Good, Bad And Ugly From The Packers’ First Training Camp Practice
The Green Bay Packers’ first training camp practice of 2026 offered a mixed bag of results, with both promising signs and lingering questions. Tight end Tucker Kraft’s continued progress in his recovery from a torn ACL was the most significant story from the day.
Kraft’s rehabilitation efforts have been encouraging, with the tight end himself optimistic about his chances of returning sooner rather than later. General manager Brian Gutekunst echoed this sentiment, suggesting that Kraft may be ready to return to action before long. This is welcome news for the Packers, who saw Kraft enjoy an All-Pro season in 2025 before his injury.
Kraft’s impressive statistics from last season – including being the only tight end with 30-plus receptions, 475-plus receiving yards, and six-plus receiving touchdowns through Week 9 – make his absence keenly felt. The Packers would do well to finalize a deal with Kraft before the season starts, not just for their own benefit but also to ensure that this talented player remains committed to the franchise.
MarShawn Lloyd, meanwhile, appears to be in good health and ready to contribute as a running back. His off-season work under Dr. John Meyer has paid dividends, and he now feels stronger and more confident in his movements. With Josh Jacobs’ availability still uncertain after his arrest on May 26, Lloyd’s emergence could be crucial for the Packers.
Linebacker Zaire Franklin made an impact with a key play in practice, stripping the ball from MarShawn Lloyd and demonstrating his instincts. Franklin’s trade for Colby Wooden has already yielded dividends, and his attitude and approach to competition are a welcome addition to the team.
The Packers’ struggling offensive line may have received a boost with left guard Aaron Banks’ return from the PUP list. With a settled quintet at the starting positions – Jordan Morgan, Banks, Sean Rhyan, Anthony Belton, and Zach Tom – continuity could be key in getting the offense back on track.
Rookie second-round draft pick Brandon Cisse joined Carrington Valentine with the No. 1 unit at cornerback due to Keisean Nixon’s hamstring injury. Undrafted cornerback Marlon Jones also made headlines by intercepting quarterback Kyle McCord and returning it for a touchdown.
Despite these promising signs, there are still questions surrounding Josh Jacobs’ availability and the team’s overall depth at running back. However, with Kraft and Lloyd showing progress, Franklin making an impact, and the offensive line potentially on the mend, there is cause for optimism within the Packers organization.
Reader Views
- CSCorrespondent S. Tan · field correspondent
While Tucker Kraft's recovery is a welcome development, the Packers mustn't get too ahead of themselves in assuming his return will be seamless. Last season's statistics are a testament to his dominance, but injuries can have lasting effects on a player's physical and mental well-being. The team would do well to implement a gradual reintegration plan for Kraft, rather than rushing him back into action. This approach could also provide valuable insight into the team's ability to manage player health and injury protocols in advance of the regular season.
- RJReporter J. Avery · staff reporter
While Tucker Kraft's progress is undeniably encouraging, the Packers can't afford to wait too long on securing his services. A lengthy contract extension would not only ensure Kraft's future with the team but also prevent other suitors from swooping in. As enticing as a one-year deal might seem, it's a gamble that could backfire if Kraft doesn't regain his All-Pro form quickly. With MarShawn Lloyd emerging as a solid backup option, perhaps it's time for the Packers to lock up both players and guarantee stability at tight end and running back positions.
- ADAnalyst D. Park · policy analyst
The Packers' training camp practice was marked by both optimism and caution. Tucker Kraft's recovery from his ACL injury is a welcome development, but the team must tread carefully in contract negotiations to avoid losing him for good. The lack of depth at tight end is palpable after Kraft's All-Pro season last year. Meanwhile, MarShawn Lloyd's emergence as a running back could be a silver lining if Josh Jacobs' availability remains uncertain. However, the Packers cannot afford to rely on Lloyd alone – a more substantial signing or draft pick would provide much-needed insurance against injuries.