Packers TE Tucker Kraft explains how COVID protocols helped him get drafted
There are some pretty interesting draft stories out there and the story of how COVID-19 protocols helped pave the way for Packers rookie Tucker Kraft's future third-round draft selection is one of them. "We didn't play a season in the 2020 fall – COVID eliminated that," Kraft told reporters Friday after being asked when playing in […]
There are some pretty interesting draft stories out there and the story of how COVID-19 protocols helped pave the way for Packers rookie Tucker Kraft's future third-round draft selection is one of them.
"We didn't play a season in the 2020 fall – COVID eliminated that," Kraft told reporters Friday after being asked when playing in the NFL became a reality. "So we just practiced every single day. I was playing one of the best defenses in the FCS, at the time, and I felt like I was dominating. I kind of realized, 'I think I can play in the NFL.'
"I didn't think I'd be a third-round draft pick, but I knew I could play in the NFL."
People discover their confidence in all kinds of ways and it's safe to say that's one of the more unique discoveries. Regardless, it's all about what Kraft does next.
He may come from a small school in South Dakota State, but former head coach John Stiegelmeier ran a pro-style offense in which Kraft thrived. So, when it comes to a starting point, Kraft should be able to wrap his head around everything.
Even if it's currently akin to drinking water out of a fire house.
"It's coming at ya fast, learning this whole thing," said Kraft. "We've gotten through one install, but I can see here shortly it's going to be like drinking water out of a fire hose. It's a fun process.
"… I think my time at South Dakota State, in that pro-style offense that we ran, it was really helpful. I can line up in any part of the field, here, with Green Bay and run a route or get out on a man in space."
It's going to be fun to watch both Kraft's and second-round pick Luke Musgrave's development over the coming weeks and months. If they can hit the ground running, then the Packers offense will be in a good spot heading into the regular season.
