One of the greatest mysteries for the Green Bay Packers this offseason is what they plan to do with left tackle David Bakhtiari. The three-time Pro Bowler is expected to carry a $40 million cap cost into the 2024 NFL season. However, the Packers can save $21 million by eliminating him. Given that he has only appeared in 13 games over the last three seasons, many believe that this is the best thing for the organization to do.
However, there is a case can be made that, when healthy, Bakhtiari remains the team’s top offensive lineman. The various treatments he underwent last season to repair the new ailment he sustained are intended to make him capable of playing a complete season, or as near to one as he can.
Obviously, Bakhtiari, when healthy, is one of the top linemen in the NFL, let alone on the Packers’ roster. However, even if Aaron had not been injured and suffered more injuries on top of the first ACL injury, the Packers would not have planned on taking a nearly $40 million cap charge this season. That is, even if Bakhtiari had played a complete season in each of the previous two years, this discussion would still be ongoing.
However, the injury complicates the response to the question. Will Green Bay simply release Bakhtiari, or will they negotiate a contract restructure/extension to keep him while saving money?
Green Bay Packers left tackle David Bakhtiari made a cryptic social media post on his future.
On Saturday, Bakhtiari posted on Instagram (via Jacob Morley on X): “Those who don’t know, will learn. Those that know, will appreciate. Those that appreciate, I won’t let down.” #cantcomebackwithoutasetback #dinnerfortwo It’s unclear if this was a hint or an inspirational post, but it’s clear Bakhtiari anticipated the reaction. Green Bay Packers fans react to David Bakhtiari’s Instagram post.
Some comments from admirers on a Reddit conversation over Bakhtiari’s post:
Obviously, some fans are ready to move on from Bakhtiari. Others on X were a little more open to Bakhtiari’s return:
