After OTAs or minicamp, it would be pretty unfair to start labeling any of the Green Bay Packers' draft picks a bust. After all, they haven't even had a chance to take part in their first NFL game, let alone even a training camp.
But, if we are talking about a draft pick from the past few years, that's a different conversation altogether. Unfortunately, for tight end Luke Musgrave, this is the conversation we are now having.
The 2023 second-round pick out of Oregon State has seen his supposed starting spot lost to the guy drafted right after him in the third round two years ago, Tucker Kraft. With Kraft becoming a staple in the offense and someone who should truly get the ball a whole lot more, that leaves question marks around Musgrave's future.
Luke Musgrave's near-bust label is somewhat unfair, but still worth discussing
As a second-round pick, any team is likely hoping to find a sure starter and, maybe, a star. But, over his first two NFL seasons, Musgrave has endured injuries which have hampered his ability to stay on the field.
From a lacerated kidney as a rookie to an ankle injury in his second season, Musgrave has had a rough start to his life as a pro. He's suited up for just 18 of 34 games over his first two years.
It is safe to say he has all the potential in the world, but will his body allow him to stay on the field? This is a make-or-break year for Musgrave, whether it's fair or not. That's a tough pill to swallow as a guy who was selected in the second round, but it's the blunt truth.
If Musgrave can stay healthy in 2025 and become a staple in 12 personnel next to Kraft, then that's the best-case scenario. It already looks like Kraft is the guy, but Musgrave needs to stay healthy and prove he can be the best no. 2 tight end he can possibly be.
If he cannot stay healthy, or if he just doesn't live up to his draft billing, then that label will start to make more sense.