The Good, Bad and Ugly from Packers' 12th Training Camp Practice
Tucker Kraft's return and position battles highlight an intense practice session.
1Tucker Kraft's Impressive Return
Star tight end Tucker Kraft participated in 11-on-11 drills for the first time in 9.5 months after tearing his right ACL. The Packers' offensive weapon caught multiple passes including a touchdown, giving his team a major morale boost. Before his injury in 2025, Kraft was having an All-Pro caliber season. His return promises to significantly strengthen Green Bay's offensive lineup as they prepare for the regular season.
2Rookie Kicker Trey Smack Stays Perfect
First-year kicker Trey Smack went 4-for-4 on field goal attempts during practice, connecting from 43, 38, 33 and 28 yards despite windy conditions. Coming off a 3-for-3 performance against Pittsburgh last week, Smack has now reached his highest success rate this summer at 77.5%. The consistent rookie might finally solve Green Bay's long-standing kicker reliability issues that have plagued the team in recent seasons.
3Heated Position Battles at Guard and Cornerback
Starting spots at left guard and cornerback remain undecided as the Packers approach their second preseason game. Rookie Jager Burton is competing at left guard while Jacob Monk battles on the right side. In the secondary, Keisean Nixon and Benjamin St-Juste continue their duel for the starting cornerback position. Head coach Matt LaFleur stated these competitions will likely continue through final roster cuts, with upcoming preseason games being critical evaluation opportunities.
4Quarterbacks Struggle During Practice
Packers QBs Jordan Love and Tyrod Taylor combined for three interceptions during Sunday's practice, raising concerns about offensive efficiency. Love's decision-making and pass selection drew particular criticism from coaches. With the season opener against Minnesota Vikings approaching, Green Bay needs significantly more consistent quarterback play. The team hopes to see improvements in this area during remaining training camp sessions and preseason contests.
5Injury Updates and Returns
Several key Packers players remained sidelined during the 2-hour, 10-minute practice held in 85-degree heat. Defensive standout Lukas Van Ness and running back Josh Jacobs were among those unable to participate. However, the return of Aaron Banks provided some positive news for the team. The intense session also featured a few minor scuffles as players competed for roster spots ahead of next week's preseason game in Denver.
6Kraft's Impact During 2025 Season
Before his injury, Tucker Kraft was instrumental to the Packers' offensive success in 2025. With Kraft on the field, Green Bay averaged 27.6 points per game through the first seven weeks. After his ACL tear, that average dropped to just 19.8 points. Despite being ranked as the NFL's sixth-best tight end in a recent ESPN poll of executives and coaches, Kraft's statistical production suggests he might have been undervalued. His yards-after-catch ability and touchdown percentage were among the league's best at his position.
7Kraft's Historic 2025 Achievements
In just eight games before his injury, Tucker Kraft joined elite company with 32 receptions, 489 yards and 6 touchdowns - becoming just the fifth tight end since 1970 to reach those thresholds. He joined legends like Kellen Winslow, Antonio Gates, Jimmy Graham and Rob Gronkowski in achieving 30+ catches, 475+ yards, 6+ TDs and 15+ yards per reception in a season's first eight games. Kraft also became only the second Packers TE since 1970 (after Paul Coffman) with multiple 120+ yard games in a season.
8Smack's Promising Career Trajectory
Rookie kicker Trey Smack continues to impress during training camp, going 27-for-35 on all kicks this summer (77.5% success rate). His two successful 58-yard attempts against Pittsburgh - including one nullified by penalty - demonstrated rare long-range accuracy. Head coach Matt LaFleur praised Smack's 'undeniable talent,' suggesting the rookie might finally provide the kicking stability Green Bay has lacked in recent years. His consistency will be tested during upcoming preseason games.
9Critical Preseason Preparations Continue
The Packers are deep into preparations for the 2026 season following their 12th training camp practice. As the team focuses on their second preseason game against Denver, several key questions remain unanswered. Position battles, returning injured players, and young talent evaluations will dominate coaching staff discussions until final roster cuts. Offensive efficiency and defensive depth remain primary concerns ahead of the Week 1 matchup against division rival Minnesota Vikings.
Original article: Forbes - Business — Packers' Antrenman Kampında İyi, Kötü ve Çirkin