Finding a franchise left tackle frequently requires a premium draft pick, more than any other position save quarterback. It’s hardly a given that Rasheed Walker will serve as the decade’s bookend. Though Walker’s growth over his first two seasons has at least allowed Green Bay to absorb the shock of Bakhtiari’s inevitable departure with little lasting effect, David Bakhtiari was the stalwart on the edge.
Packers general manager Brian Gutekunst was open and honest about a number of players, including Bakhtiari, during a press conference early in February. The All-Pro five times over is still dealing with the consequences of an ACL rupture he sustained on the last day of 2020. Over the past four seasons, Bakhtiari has missed 47 games. There would be north of $20 million in salary space available if he were traded or released, so the Packers would naturally have to make a tough financial decision.
On February 1, Gutekunst told reporters, “Obviously, David has been through a really rough stretch with the injury stuff, and he’s going through a very major surgery trying to get back to be able to play.” We’re keeping an eye on it, and I know he’s working really hard. Eventually, when we find out how his health is doing, we’ll sort of make those decisions.
He is currently in the midst of getting better. It’s not going to be brief. It will require some time.You are aware of his work ethic and the significance of his return to the field. But he still has a ways to go because this was a difficult one.
These aren’t exactly words that give one hope that Bakhtiari will be prepared for training camp this summer. But for whatever reason, Walker’s play prevents Green Bay supporters from being instantly alarmed by those remarks.
A lineman selected by the Packers early in the 2024 draft would not be shocking. An offensive line can never have too many choices, much like a baseball club with pitchers. outstanding performance from athletes such as Zach Tom and
