The Green Bay Packers are gearing up for an exciting 2026 season, and the return of two key players could be the game-changer the team needs. After a tough 2025 campaign that saw both tight end Tucker Kraft and linebacker Micah Parsons sidelined with torn ACLs, General Manager Brian Gutekunst has delivered promising news: both stars are expected back early in the season.

Tucker Kraft’s breakout season was cut short in November when he suffered a torn ACL. In just eight games, the tight end hauled in 32 passes for 489 yards and six touchdowns, showcasing his potential as a dynamic offensive weapon. Meanwhile, Micah Parsons—who joined Green Bay in a blockbuster move—was dominant before his December injury. Despite playing only 14 games, he racked up 12.5 sacks, 12 tackles for loss, and 27 quarterback hits, earning AP first-team All-Pro honors for the third time in his career.

“They’re doing great,” Gutekunst said in a recent interview with SiriusXM NFL Radio. “Tuck’s been in here every day, and he’s obviously a little bit ahead of schedule, just because his injury happened earlier than Micah’s did. But Micah’s such a—he’s a little bit of a freak. So I think some of that has taken over, and he’s doing really well, as well.”

Gutekunst expressed confidence that both players will be back “early in the season,” adding that they’ll be “a big part of what we’re doing moving forward.” For Packers fans, this is a huge boost. Kraft’s return adds a reliable target for the passing game, while Parsons—one of the league’s most disruptive defenders—could elevate Green Bay’s defense to elite status. With their recoveries on track, the Packers are poised to make a serious run in 2026.