Green Bay, WI – April 2025
After months of speculation and growing financial pressure, the Green Bay Packers are reportedly putting a hold on plans to release or trade David Bakhtiari, instead considering a restructured short-term deal that would allow the veteran tackle to finish his career in Green and Gold.
Bakhtiari, 33, has played in just 13 games over the past three seasons due to ongoing knee complications following ACL surgery. With a cap hit nearing $39 million in 2025, many believed his time in Green Bay was coming to an end.
But according to Tom Silverstein of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, GM Brian Gutekunst has cooled on moving Bakhtiari, especially after internal discussions emphasized his locker room leadership and value as a mentor to younger linemen like Zach Tom and Rasheed Walker.
“Bakhtiari isn’t just a left tackle,” one source said. “He’s the tone-setter. Cutting him now would hurt more than it helps.”
A restructured deal could involve void years and performance-based bonuses, potentially lowering his 2025 cap hit to the $15–18 million range while allowing the Packers to stay competitive in a tight NFC North race.
Injury concerns persist, but Bakhtiari has been vocal about wanting to retire as a Packer and has reportedly shown encouraging progress in rehab.
Fans are split on the decision.
@GBTalk247 wrote: “We love 69, but that cap hit is insane. Hope they can find common ground.”
Meanwhile, @CheeseheadFaith tweeted: “Keep Bakh. No better protection for Love’s blindside when healthy.”
With Jordan Love heading into a critical year and the offensive line undergoing transition, Bakhtiari’s experience and presence could be the glue the Packers need — both on and off the field.
