Green Bay Packers General Manager Brian Gutekunst has officially confirmed the release of veteran left tackle David Bakhtiari, marking the end of an impressive 11-year run with the franchise. During a recent press appearance, Gutekunst expressed deep gratitude for Bakhtiari’s achievements and impact, highlighting his status as one of the best linemen in franchise history and expressing confidence that he will someday be inducted into the Packers Hall of Fame.
The decision to part ways comes after Bakhtiari’s career was severely disrupted by knee injuries during his final seasons. Following a devastating ACL tear on December 31, 2020, he underwent a total of five surgeries on his left knee, including procedures targeting cartilage and fluid buildup. These issues have restricted his participation to just 13 games over the past three seasons, with only a single appearance in 2023.
Despite these challenges, both Gutekunst and coaching staff remained optimistic. Gutekunst noted that Bakhtiari “played at such a high level” when on the field and praised his commitment and perseverance in attempting to return to peak performance .. The team also restructured his compensation in previous years—converting salary and bonuses into signing bonuses—to minimize immediate cap hits while preserving their ability to retain him .
Ultimately, the Packers announced the move on March 11, 2024, freeing up approximately $20–21 million in salary cap space, as his 2024 base salary was reported at $20.2 million—resulting in a $40 million cap charge. This saving will give the team increased flexibility to build from a younger, more sustainable roster.
David Bakhtiari, a fourth-round pick in 2013, leaves a decorated legacy: two First-Team All-Pro selections (2018, 2020), three Second-Team All-Pro honors (2016, 2017, 2019), and four Pro Bowl nods . His dominant play, combined with his tenure, places him among the greatest offensive linemen in Packers history.
He shared an emotional farewell on social media, reflecting on his time in Green Bay:
“A lot of emotion in this. I just want to say THANK YOU, Green Bay. … It’s been a hell of a run. … Don’t cry because it’s over. Smile, because it happened.”
Gutekunst reiterated this sentiment during his official statement, thanking Bakhtiari “for an exceptional 11 seasons” and acknowledging the combination of his talent and leadership both on the field and in the locker room.
Looking ahead, Bakhtiari has made it clear he wishes to continue his career, aiming to prove that his knee is once again dependable. Gutekunst upheld that perspective, expressing cautious optimism: “If he can get this thing right… he’s still got a lot of really good football ahead of him.” He emphasized Bakhtiari’s commitment to rehabilitation and his efforts to return healthier and stronger.
Bakhtiari’s future remains uncertain, but there’s ongoing buzz about potential suitors. The New England Patriots—looking for veteran experience on their offensive line—have been speculated as a possible destination. Similarly, the New York Jets, where former teammate Aaron Rodgers now plays, have shown interest . Fan reactions reflect a split between hope and realism: some believe he could still deliver eight impactful games, while others fear continued injuries will limit his availability.
Reddit fans honored his contributions:
“Thank you 69, you were a monster for years.”
But others noted the risks:
“I honestly don’t even know if you can get 8 games in a season out of Bakhtiari anymore. Dude has sustained and is still dealing with some truly significant injuries.”
Gutekunst echoed this measured perspective, saying there’s no set timeline for Bakhtiari’s return, as the team will continue to monitor his rehab carefully.
In summary, Brian Gutekunst has made Bakhtiari’s release official, closing a silver-and-green chapter defined by elite play and undeniable valor. Although the separation was prompted by persistent knee injuries and budgetary constraints, there remains hope—not just sentiment—that Bakhtiari will launch a second NFL chapter. With teams like the Patriots and Jets reportedly interested, his professional story may yet continue, provided he can prove his body can hold up. For Packers fans, his departure symbolizes the end of an era: a heartfelt farewell rooted in both proud achievement and realistic constraints.
If you’re curious about potential destination fits, contract projections, or medical recovery timelines, just say the word!
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