The Chicago Bears and Green Bay Packers have a fiercely contested rivalry dating back over a century. Last season, the Bears secured thrilling victories in three matchups against the Packers, including a crucial postseason win after clinching the NFC North and earning the NFC’s No. 2 seed.

One notable absence from these encounters was Packers’ wide receiver Tucker Kraft, sidelined by a torn ACL in November 2025. In a recent appearance on “Up & Adams with Kay Adams,” Kraft discussed his anticipation for facing the Bears in the upcoming season. He remarked that while the opponent is not his main focus, he recognizes the rejuvenated rivalry.

“It doesn’t matter who the opponent is when I get the ball in my hands. I’m trying to stress the defense as much as I can, first and foremost. I want everyone to have to run to the ball to try to tackle me. My goal immediately is always to make the first guy miss,” Kraft said.

He acknowledged the importance of the rivalry with the Bears, saying, “Obviously, there’s the rivalry there with the Bears. I don’t necessarily have a team I dislike more in the NFC North. I don’t like any of them, but the Bears- that rivalry has built over the last year, and I will capitalize on every opportunity I get.”

Despite playing in only eight games last season, Kraft was the Packers’ third-leading receiver, accumulating 489 yards and six touchdowns on 32 receptions. His presence was missed during key matchups against the Bears, including a 31-27 loss in an epic NFC Wild Card Round game in Chicago. In that game, Green Bay initially led 21-6 after three quarters. However, Caleb Williams and the Bears rallied in the fourth quarter to outscore the Packers 25-6, with Williams connecting with DJ Moore for the decisive touchdown.

Moore has since been traded to the Buffalo Bills, adding intrigue to the Bears’ roster strategy. With the Packers’ lineup restored to full strength, including Kraft among Jordan Love’s receivers, many believe they stand a better chance against the Bears this season.

The first face-off between the teams is scheduled for Week 5 in Green Bay on Sunday, Oct. 11. Their second clash will take place in Chicago on Christmas Day, available for streaming on Netflix.

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