Packers Predicted to Part Ways with 5-Time All-Pro Owed $40.5 Million

The Green Bay Packers are facing a challenging decision regarding veteran left tackle David Bakhtiari and his substantial contract in the upcoming offseason, according to Marcus Mosher of Pro Football Focus. Bakhtiari, a five-time All-Pro, has played just 13 games over the last three seasons due to injury issues. With a hefty cap number of $40.5 million in 2024 and speculation that Bakhtiari might seek a change, there are questions about his future with the team.

Despite Bakhtiari’s impressive statistic of allowing only one sack since the start of the 2020 season, concerns arise from his limited participation in only 25 out of 67 possible games during that period. The combination of persistent knee problems and his high contract make the prospect of trading him seem unlikely.

Bakhtiari is entering the final season of a four-year, $92 million contract in 2024, with the current cap number resulting from a recent restructuring by the Packers to create salary cap space. Any team considering a trade for Bakhtiari would face significant financial commitments without assurances of his availability or performance.

The more plausible scenario is the Packers releasing Bakhtiari, saving $21.5 million in the process. If this happens, Bakhtiari could become a sought-after free agent, with the New York Jets emerging as a potential destination. The Jets, in need of a left tackle, present an attractive option, especially with Bakhtiari’s close ties to former Packers teammate Aaron Rodgers, expected to be the Jets’ starting quarterback in the 2024 season.

The Packers previously traded Rodgers to the Jets in 2023, bringing along former teammates like Allen Lazard and Randall Cobb. Considering the existing connections and the Jets’ offensive line requirements, Bakhtiari reuniting with Rodgers in New York appears to be a plausible and intriguing possibility. The Jets, bolstered by a strong defense and the return of running back Breece Hall to top form, could also be a legitimate Super Bowl contender next season if they maintain good health.