Last Updated on October 28, 2026 by Valentim Tereshkova
Tucker Kraft is an American professional football tight end for the Green Bay Packers in the National Football League (NFL). Born on November 3, 2000, in Bismarck, North Dakota, Kraft grew up in Timber Lake, South Dakota, where his family developed strong connections with the local community. His journey to professional football was shaped by personal tragedy, determination and the support of his mother and two older brothers.
As of now, Tucker Kraft is married to Baylee Jandahl Kraft, a professional photographer whom he wed on May 18, 2024. The couple have one daughter, Charlotte Claire Kraft, born on July 2, 2025. His parents are the late Doug Kraft and Tausha Kraft, while his two older brothers are Cody Kraft and Tanner Kraft. His mother later married Guthrie Ducheneaux, who became Kraft’s stepfather.
Tucker Kraft’s Wife: Baylee Jandahl Kraft
Tucker Kraft’s wife is Baylee Jandahl Kraft, a professional photographer who has supported the Green Bay Packers tight end throughout his transition from college football to the NFL.
The couple have been together since at least 2021, when Kraft was developing into one of the leading tight ends at South Dakota State University.
Baylee has maintained her own professional interests in photography while supporting her husband’s football career.
She frequently shares photographs of their family, including moments involving their daughter and their dog, Ruthie.
Although Kraft’s professional responsibilities involve traveling and demanding training schedules, the couple have established their family home in Green Bay, Wisconsin.
How Did Tucker Kraft Meet Baylee Jandahl?
Tucker Kraft and Baylee Jandahl developed their relationship during the period when Kraft was playing college football at South Dakota State University.
Although the exact circumstances surrounding their first meeting have not been extensively documented, the couple were already together by early 2021.
Their relationship continued as Kraft became an All-American tight end and helped South Dakota State win its first Football Championship Subdivision national championship.
Baylee also supported him throughout the preparations leading to the 2023 NFL Draft.
When the Green Bay Packers selected Kraft, she was among the family members celebrating his achievement in Timber Lake, South Dakota.
Tucker Kraft and Baylee Jandahl’s Engagement
Tucker Kraft proposed to Baylee Jandahl on March 16, 2023, during a vacation in Lake Havasu, Arizona.
The couple announced their engagement through social media, sharing photographs of the special occasion.
The proposal came shortly before Kraft entered the NFL Draft, marking an important moment in both his personal and professional life.
In April 2023, the Green Bay Packers selected Kraft in the third round of the NFL Draft.
The couple subsequently began planning their wedding while Kraft adjusted to the responsibilities of professional football.
Tucker Kraft and Baylee Jandahl’s Wedding
Tucker Kraft married Baylee Jandahl on May 18, 2024, in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.
The couple celebrated their marriage with an outdoor ceremony attended by relatives, friends and several Green Bay Packers teammates.
According to People magazine, the wedding guests included Packers players Tyler Davis, Ben Sims, Isaiah McDuffie, Lukas Van Ness and Josh Myers.
The newlyweds shared photographs and videos from their celebration on Instagram, including moments from their ceremony and reception.
The wedding took place after Kraft completed his rookie NFL season, providing an opportunity to celebrate with family before returning to Green Bay for offseason training.
The couple subsequently established their home in Wisconsin, where they began building their married life together.
Tucker Kraft’s Children
Tucker Kraft and his wife, Baylee Jandahl Kraft, have one publicly known child, a daughter named Charlotte Claire Kraft.
The couple announced their first pregnancy in February 2025 through a joint Instagram post.
They shared photographs showing Baylee’s pregnancy, ultrasound images and their dog, Ruthie, alongside decorations celebrating the expected arrival.
The announcement attracted congratulations from Green Bay Packers players, relatives and supporters.
Charlotte Claire Kraft: Tucker Kraft’s Daughter
Charlotte Claire Kraft was born on July 2, 2025, becoming the first child of Tucker and Baylee Kraft.
The couple publicly announced her arrival on July 9, 2025, sharing photographs from the hospital.
One memorable photograph showed the newborn wearing a miniature Green Bay Packers football helmet.
The announcement was widely covered by Wisconsin sports publications, including the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel.
Charlotte’s birth represented an important milestone in Kraft’s personal life as he prepared for his third NFL season.
During an interview published in July 2025, Kraft spoke about adjusting to fatherhood and caring for his newborn daughter.
He humorously discussed changes to his sleeping routine while explaining how happy he was to become a father.
In August 2026, the family appeared together at Green Bay’s Family Night event at Lambeau Field.
Kraft shared photographs with Baylee and Charlotte, offering fans a glimpse of their life away from professional football.
As of now, Charlotte is the couple’s only publicly known child.
Tucker Kraft’s Parents: Doug Kraft and Tausha Kraft
Tucker Kraft was born to Doug Kraft and Tausha Kraft, who raised him and his older brothers in Timber Lake, South Dakota.
His father was an accomplished athlete and agricultural pilot, while his mother worked as a nurse.
Both parents emphasized the importance of hard work, education, community involvement and personal responsibility.
However, Kraft’s childhood changed dramatically in June 2013 when his father died in an airplane accident.
The tragedy deeply affected the family, but his mother and brothers continued providing encouragement as he pursued his football ambitions.
Tucker Kraft’s Father: Doug Kraft
Tucker Kraft’s father was Doug Kraft, a former college football player, agricultural pilot and respected member of the Timber Lake community.
Doug was an exceptional athlete during his younger years, participating in football, basketball and track and field.
He attended Huron University in South Dakota, where he became an All-American wide receiver.
During his college career, Doug established several receiving records and earned recognition as one of the program’s most accomplished football players.
After graduating with a criminal justice degree in 1997, he received an opportunity to try out for the Miami Dolphins.
Although he did not establish a professional NFL career, he remained involved in athletics and encouraged his sons to participate in competitive sports.
How Doug Kraft Influenced His Son’s Football Career
Doug Kraft played an important role in introducing Tucker and his older brothers to football.
One of Tucker’s earliest childhood memories involved watching his father throw footballs with his oldest brother, Cody.
Doug regularly practiced with his sons, encouraging them to develop their athletic abilities while emphasizing the importance of discipline.
He believed that participating in sports required commitment, regardless of whether someone was naturally talented.
However, he avoided placing excessive pressure on his children and encouraged them to enjoy their activities.
Beyond sports, Doug was actively involved in community life.
He served as a volunteer firefighter, participated in local government and helped neighbors with various activities.
He also enjoyed music, mechanics, farming and aviation.
His willingness to help other people made him a respected figure in Timber Lake.
What Happened to Tucker Kraft’s Father?
Doug Kraft died on June 6, 2013, in an airplane accident near Ludlow, South Dakota.
He was 39 years old.
According to a detailed investigation published by the Mitchell Republic in May 2023, Doug was flying a Weatherly 620B agricultural aircraft while spraying a wheatfield when the plane crashed.
He sustained fatal injuries during the accident.
Tucker was only 12 years old when his father passed away.
The loss was particularly difficult because Doug had maintained a close relationship with his three sons.
His death also deeply affected the Timber Lake community, where he was known for his generosity and involvement in local activities.
The family’s grief was compounded by the challenge of adjusting to life without him.
How Tucker Kraft Honors His Late Father
Tucker Kraft has continued honoring his father’s legacy throughout his football career.
One particularly meaningful connection is Doug Kraft Field, the football field in Timber Lake that was named in his father’s memory.
Tucker played high school football on the field, creating a direct connection between his athletic development and his father’s legacy.
During interviews, Kraft has discussed how his father’s lessons continue influencing his decisions and character.
He particularly remembers his father’s commitment to helping people and maintaining strong community relationships.
In January 2023, Kraft recalled advice Doug had given him about becoming someone others could depend on.
The message encouraged him to develop positive relationships and become a dependable teammate.
Although Doug did not live to see Tucker reach the NFL, his influence remains an important part of his son’s professional journey.
Tucker Kraft’s Mother: Tausha Kraft
Tucker Kraft’s mother is Tausha Kraft, also identified as Tausha Walter in some publications.
She worked as a nurse in Eagle Butte, South Dakota, while raising Tucker and his older brothers.
Following her husband’s death in 2013, Tausha faced the difficult responsibility of supporting her family through grief and financial uncertainty.
Her situation became even more challenging when she developed a serious autoimmune disease in 2014.
According to the Mitchell Republic, the illness caused severe breathing problems and required repeated medical treatment.
At different points, she needed emergency hospital care and treatment at the Mayo Clinic.
Despite these difficulties, Tausha remained committed to supporting her sons and encouraging their educational and sporting ambitions.
Her resilience became an important example for Tucker, who developed greater independence during his teenage years.
How Tausha Kraft Supported Her Son’s NFL Dream
Tausha played an essential role in helping Tucker overcome the challenges associated with losing his father.
Although she experienced serious health difficulties, she continued encouraging him to pursue his football ambitions.
During high school, Tucker realized that earning an athletic scholarship could help him pay for college.
He subsequently dedicated considerable time to strength training, football development and academic preparation.
His efforts eventually earned him an opportunity to attend South Dakota State University.
When the Green Bay Packers selected him in the 2023 NFL Draft, Tausha celebrated alongside other family members in Timber Lake.
The achievement represented the culmination of years of determination and family support.
Tucker Kraft’s Stepfather: Guthrie Ducheneaux
Tucker Kraft’s stepfather is Guthrie Ducheneaux, who married his mother, Tausha, in 2018.
Following the marriage, Guthrie became part of the Kraft family and developed relationships with Tucker and his two older brothers.
In a May 2023 Mitchell Republic interview, Ducheneaux described the brothers as exceptionally close and supportive of one another.
He also recalled being surprised by the energetic atmosphere of the household when he first met them.
Despite the family’s previous hardships, Guthrie recognized their strong emotional connection and shared determination.
His arrival represented another chapter in the family’s life following Doug Kraft’s death.
Tucker Kraft’s Siblings: Meet His Two Older Brothers
Tucker Kraft has two older brothers named Cody Kraft and Tanner Kraft.
The three brothers grew up together in Timber Lake, South Dakota, where their father encouraged them to participate in football, basketball and other sports.
Following Doug’s death, Cody and Tanner assumed additional responsibilities within the family.
Both brothers helped Tucker navigate the emotional challenges of adolescence and encouraged him to continue developing his athletic abilities.
Cody Kraft: Tucker Kraft’s Oldest Brother
Cody Kraft is Tucker Kraft’s oldest brother and a former college football player at Northern State University.
Like his father, Cody developed an interest in competitive athletics during childhood.
He played football and basketball before continuing his football career at the NCAA Division II level.
During his time at Northern State, Cody gained valuable experience that later helped him provide guidance to Tucker.
He has spoken publicly about the importance of their father’s lessons, particularly the expectation that his sons should give their best effort whenever they committed to an activity.
In a May 2023 interview, Cody recalled how Doug encouraged his children to participate fully in sports rather than abandoning commitments when activities became difficult.
Cody also helped Tucker develop a more competitive mentality during high school.
He encouraged his younger brother to remain friendly away from competition while approaching games with greater intensity.
The advice contributed to Tucker’s development as a physical and determined football player.
Tanner Kraft: Tucker Kraft’s Brother
Tanner Kraft is Tucker Kraft’s other older brother and an important figure in his upbringing.
Following their father’s death in 2013, Tanner assumed additional responsibilities at home.
At the time, Cody was already attending college, leaving Tanner as the oldest brother living with Tucker and their mother.
Tanner initially attempted to become a father figure for his younger brother.
However, he later recognized that Tucker needed his friendship and emotional support rather than strict supervision.
Their relationship subsequently became stronger.
Tucker has publicly described Tanner as one of the strongest people he knew during the period following their father’s death.
Tanner later attended Lake Area Technical College in Watertown, South Dakota.
He subsequently worked at Air Kraft Spraying, the family-connected agricultural aviation business in Timber Lake.
How Cody and Tanner Supported Tucker Kraft
Cody and Tanner played important roles in helping Tucker continue pursuing football following their father’s death.
They regularly encouraged him during athletic training and provided guidance based on their own sporting experiences.
When their mother experienced medical difficulties, both brothers also helped maintain stability within the family.
According to the Mitchell Republic, the brothers occasionally stayed with Tucker while Tausha received medical treatment.
These experiences strengthened their relationships and encouraged greater personal responsibility.
Both Cody and Tanner were present during important moments leading to Tucker’s selection in the 2023 NFL Draft.
Tanner has also continued supporting his younger brother’s professional football career.
In December 2024, he spoke publicly about how Tucker’s NFL success had brought excitement to the Timber Lake community.
Tucker Kraft’s Uncle: Jake Kraft
Tucker Kraft’s uncle is Jake Kraft, the brother of his late father, Doug.
Jake has been associated with Air Kraft Spraying, the agricultural aviation business connected to the family in Timber Lake.
During Tucker’s NFL Draft celebration in April 2023, Jake helped organize activities at the company’s aircraft hangar.
The gathering brought together hundreds of relatives, friends, former teammates and community members.
Jake also provided helicopter rides during the celebration.
Following Tucker’s selection by the Green Bay Packers, Jake reflected on how proud Doug would have been to see his son reach professional football.
His involvement demonstrates how the extended Kraft family has remained connected through shared memories and community traditions.
Tucker Kraft’s Childhood and Family Background
Tucker Kraft was born in Bismarck, North Dakota, and raised in Timber Lake, South Dakota, a small community located within the Cheyenne River Reservation area.
His family maintained strong connections with the local community through farming, aviation, sports and volunteer activities.
During childhood, Tucker participated in football, basketball and track and field.
His father’s athletic background helped establish a competitive environment, while his older brothers provided regular opportunities to practice.
After Doug’s death, Tucker increasingly relied on sports as a positive outlet.
He eventually attended Timber Lake High School, where he became an outstanding athlete.
During his senior football season, he rushed for 1,405 yards and scored 24 rushing touchdowns.
He also contributed defensively, recording 56 tackles.
His performances earned recognition among South Dakota’s leading high school football players.
Despite playing nine-man football in a small community, Kraft attracted attention from college coaches.
He eventually committed to South Dakota State University in June 2018.
Tucker Kraft’s College Football Career
Tucker Kraft played college football at South Dakota State University, where he developed into one of the leading tight ends in the Football Championship Subdivision (FCS).
He initially joined the program as a talented athlete with limited experience playing tight end.
However, his combination of size, speed and physical strength helped him adapt to the position.
During the 2021 season, Kraft recorded 65 receptions for 780 yards and six touchdowns.
His performances earned All-America recognition and established him as a potential NFL prospect.
Although several larger college football programs reportedly expressed interest in recruiting him through the transfer portal, Kraft remained loyal to South Dakota State.
His decision reflected his close relationships with teammates, coaches and the South Dakota community.
In January 2023, Kraft helped South Dakota State defeat North Dakota State in the FCS national championship game.
The victory represented a historic achievement for the Jackrabbits.
He subsequently declared for the 2023 NFL Draft.
Tucker Kraft’s NFL Career and Family Support
The Green Bay Packers selected Tucker Kraft in the third round of the 2023 NFL Draft with the 78th overall pick.
His selection was celebrated by hundreds of people at a gathering in Timber Lake.
The event took place at the Air Kraft Spraying hangar, a location closely connected to his late father’s legacy.
Following his arrival in Green Bay, Kraft gradually established himself as an important member of the Packers’ offense.
His breakout season came in 2024, when he recorded 50 receptions for 707 receiving yards and seven touchdowns.
He became one of quarterback Jordan Love’s most important receiving options.
Kraft continued building his professional career in 2025, although a knee injury interrupted his season.
His rehabilitation and return to football remained important priorities during the 2026 offseason.
Throughout these experiences, his wife, daughter, mother and brothers have continued to form part of his personal support system.
Tucker Kraft’s Connection to His Hometown
Tucker Kraft has maintained a strong connection with Timber Lake and the surrounding Cheyenne River community.
Despite becoming a professional athlete, he has regularly acknowledged the support he received from relatives, neighbors, coaches and teachers during childhood.
In December 2024, Kraft participated in the NFL’s My Cause My Cleats initiative, selecting the Cheyenne River Youth Project as his charitable organization.
The nonprofit supports children and families through educational, cultural and community programs.
He has also received recognition from the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe for his contributions to the community.
His involvement reflects the values encouraged by his father, who was known for helping neighbors and participating in local activities.
For Kraft, supporting his hometown represents a way to honor his family and contribute to the community that helped raise him.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tucker Kraft’s Family
Who is Tucker Kraft’s wife?
Tucker Kraft is married to Baylee Jandahl Kraft, a professional photographer. The couple married on May 18, 2024, in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.
Does Tucker Kraft have a girlfriend?
No. As of now, Tucker Kraft is married to Baylee Jandahl Kraft, who was previously his longtime girlfriend.
When did Tucker Kraft get married?
Tucker Kraft married Baylee Jandahl on May 18, 2024, during an outdoor wedding ceremony in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.
Does Tucker Kraft have children?
Yes. Tucker Kraft has one publicly known child, a daughter named Charlotte Claire Kraft, born on July 2, 2025.
Who is Tucker Kraft’s daughter?
Tucker Kraft’s daughter is Charlotte Claire Kraft, whom he welcomed with his wife, Baylee, in July 2025.
Who are Tucker Kraft’s parents?
Tucker Kraft’s parents are Doug Kraft and Tausha Kraft. His father was a former college football player and agricultural pilot, while his mother worked as a nurse.
Who is Tucker Kraft’s father?
Tucker Kraft’s father was Doug Kraft, an All-American college football player at Huron University who later worked as an agricultural pilot.
What happened to Tucker Kraft’s father?
Doug Kraft died on June 6, 2013, in an airplane accident near Ludlow, South Dakota. Tucker was 12 years old when his father passed away.
Who is Tucker Kraft’s mother?
Tucker Kraft’s mother is Tausha Kraft, who worked as a nurse in South Dakota and supported her three sons following their father’s death.
Who is Tucker Kraft’s stepfather?
Tucker Kraft’s stepfather is Guthrie Ducheneaux, who married his mother, Tausha, in 2018.
How many siblings does Tucker Kraft have?
Tucker Kraft has two older brothers named Cody Kraft and Tanner Kraft. He is the youngest of the three brothers.
Who is Cody Kraft?
Cody Kraft is Tucker Kraft’s oldest brother. He played college football at Northern State University and helped guide his younger brother’s athletic development.
Who is Tanner Kraft?
Tanner Kraft is Tucker Kraft’s older brother. He helped support the family following their father’s death and has worked at Air Kraft Spraying in Timber Lake.
Who is Tucker Kraft’s uncle?
Tucker Kraft’s uncle is Jake Kraft, the brother of his late father, Doug Kraft. Jake has been involved in the family’s agricultural aviation business.
Where is Tucker Kraft’s family from?
Tucker Kraft grew up in Timber Lake, South Dakota, although he was born in Bismarck, North Dakota.
What is Tucker Kraft’s full name?
His full given name is Tucker John Kraft, according to the Green Bay Packers’ official player biography.
Valentim Tereshkova is a sports journalist and NFL analyst specializing in team dynamics, scheme breakdowns, and league-wide trends. Covering everything from offseason roster construction and Draft developments to Sunday game plans and Super Bowl contenders, he delivers clear, sharp commentary on the gridiron. Valentim combines stat-driven analysis with a passion for football storytelling to give readers an expert look into the AFC and NFC.
