David Bakhtiari Is Here... But For How Long?

David Bakhtiari made it clear that he's only showing up for the minimum number of voluntary workouts to get his bonus. That doesn't mean much in the grand scheme of things, but he still may not be with the Packers next year.

David Bakhtiari is officially on the Packers roster and under contract for the next two years.

Due to all the restructures as a part of the Packers moves aimed at squeezing one more title out of the Aaron Rodgers era, David Bakhtiari currently has a 2024 cap hit of $40.5M.

If that sounds like a lot, it is. It would be the larger cap hit than any player has ever had in the history of the NFL.

It's not likely that a 33 year-old with a very major, and highly complicated, injury so recently would be kept around at that number.

A lot of people wave their hand and say "just restructure him," but it's not that simple.

When you move money around in a contract restructure, it can't be moved again (hey look, here's a whole book explaining how the NFL salary cap works). Plus, 2024 is the final year of his deal, so they can't restructure to move cap hits, they would actually need to sign him to an extension in order to spread out some of the cap hit.

But roughly half of Bakhtiari's 2024 cap hit is made up of money that has already been moved. The net result is that the Packers are locked into a cap hit of $19.1M on Bakhtiari for 2024. The other $21.4M is the money he will actually be paid in 2024 (if he plays for them).

Doing an extension to lessen that cap hit is a tricky proposition.

The math alone is difficult, since Bakhtiari probably still wants to be paid well. If he wants top 10 LT money, we're still talking about $20M per year. If the Packers were to give him a 3 year extension, and spread out the maximum $21.4M of his 2024 cap hit, they would end up with cap hits averaging over $27M per year (which is more than the $25M per year average that the highest-paid OL in the league, Laremy Tunsil, currently gets).

You read that right: if the Packers want to save cap space by extending Bakhtiari with a top-10 contract, his cap hit would still be like paying the highest-paid offensive lineman in the league for 3 years.

There's challenges beyond the math, too.

In 2027, Bakhtiari would be 36 years old. How confident are we that he has 5 years left on his knee? If the Packers front office isn't absolutely sure that he can play 5 more years, after dealing with a devastating knee injury across the last 3 seasons, they may not be willing to pay him fair market value, plus take on the huge cap hit associated with the restructuring.

They only option that would leave is Bakhtiari playing for less than he could probably command on the open market.

Look, I'm a big fan of David Bakhtiari and really appreciate his candor in interviews, but I don't think he's all that thrilled with the Packers right now. I certainly don't think he's so enamored with them that he would play at a discount for them in the final prime earning years of his life.

Absent a generous pay-cut, the only way Bakhtiari stays with the team in 2024 are:
1) The Packers take on the largest cap hit in NFL history for one more year of 69
2) The Packers extend Bakhtiari, pushing out huge cap hits into years where their young team should be maturing (while their left tackle runs out the fumes of his career)

I'm sorry, but neither of those seem likely.

After trading away Davante Adams and Aaron Rodgers in the past 15 months, it might not be shocking to see them trade David Bakhtiari, taking on some dead cap to get a draft pick for his inevitable return.

Of course, they may lean on him this year to keep Jordan Love upright in his first year as a starter.

But after 2023, there aren't a lot of viable paths to seeing David Bakhtiari remain as a member of the Green Bay Packers 

 

 

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__________________________

Bruce Irons has played, coached, and studied football for decades. Best-selling author of books such as A Fan's Guide To Understanding The NFL Draft, A Fan's Guide To Understanding The NFL Salary Cap, and A Fan's Guide To NFL Free Agency Hits And Misses, Bruce contributes to CheeseHeadTV and PackersForTheWin.com.

Follow Bruce Irons on Twitter at @BruceIronsNFL.

__________________________

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13 points
 

Comments (129)

Fan-Friendly This filter will hide comments which have ratio of 5 to 1 down-vote to up-vote.
HarryHodag's picture

June 02, 2023 at 06:55 am

It's almost a given that he won't be around next year. He's positioning himself now like Adams and Rodgers did, to do the absolute minimum at the same time grouse about how unfair the Packers have been.

He, of course, fails to remember that the Packers carried him through his extended injury process. Many teams would have just cut bait and moved on.

I think he's trying to jockey a trade to....drum roll....the Jets where the cult now makes its home.

5 points
17
12
The_Baloney_Stops_Here's picture

June 02, 2023 at 08:51 am

Yup. Cant just come out and say hes unhappy and request a trade so hes gonna become a distraction to force them into trading him so he doesnt look like the bad guy to the fans. Whats even more appauling is they think most fans are dumb enough to buy the act. Its no wonder why he, Rodgers, and Adams all got along so well. Grown ass men who are supposed to be warriors while hiding behind passive aggression and victimhood. Makes me want to puke. Dont trade him to the jets. Trade him to the worst team willing to take on his contract with malice. So done with this petty bullshit.

-7 points
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dobber's picture

June 02, 2023 at 09:14 am

"hes gonna become a distraction to force them into trading him so he doesnt look like the bad guy to the fans. "

That ship has sailed. He's clearly speaking openly about his thoughts, where he stands on this roster, and what he sees as the current state of the team. The media is gobbling it up. In this day and age of media coverage and hype, it's hard to be a quiet locker room distraction. All that stuff gets out.

5 points
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The_Baloney_Stops_Here's picture

June 02, 2023 at 09:50 am

Its really easy to say nothing.

0 points
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2
packerbackerjim's picture

June 02, 2023 at 10:28 am

I don’t think he is a fan of artificial turf, or at least his knee isn’t. Reportedly MetLife has a new and improved version which may reduce injuries. Or not.

3 points
3
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SicSemperTyrannis's picture

June 02, 2023 at 04:30 pm

From what he's said I expect him not to play on artificial turf at all this year. That's 5 games, including two that are newly on a type that's supposed to be closer to grass. Whether he tries that out for himself will be interesting to see. If he were to stay here all season that would still (likely) leave room for somebody else to try to fill his shoes.

I won't suggest who that should be but Caleb Jones at 6'9" and 370# is listed as a tackle, which seems very odd to me. He's slower, which you'd expect. C or G seems more likely, but if they ever actually play him at T having him try to replace Bakh is the natural fit. Right? He might not have the skills to be a Center but it's where I'd prefer seeing someone of his measurables. We also have at least one O lineman at 6'8" and maybe 2 at 6'7".

The ideal way to move on from Bakh would be after at least one person demonstrates they can dominate at LT, a SB contender has their starting LT go down to injury, and makes an offer you can't refuse after the bye. And also makes his future cap hits vanish from GB, of course. Reality doesn't usually align with such fantasy. I'm also curious how much cap hell is left after this year, and what irrevocably lingers in 2025 and beyond.

-1 points
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greengold's picture

June 02, 2023 at 07:01 pm

Caleb Jones of the 86 5/8” wingspan with 36” arms, all 6’ 9”, 370 lbs of him has played either RT or LT his entire life of football.

He actually has bend, with his knees, and knows how to use his amazing length very well. He was an important part of the best pass blocking OL in FBS at Indiana. His specialty is his run blocking. He’s able to hip swipe EDGE rushers completely out of the play.

Caleb simply needed work on targeting his blocks. He needed technique work like every newly drafted OL does, but he’s had a solid year of development from one of the best OL coached teams in the NFL.

I just wanted to say that.

1 points
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1
dobber's picture

June 03, 2023 at 10:14 am

" C or G seems more likely, but if they ever actually play him at T having him try to replace Bakh is the natural fit....We also have at least one O lineman at 6'8" and maybe 2 at 6'7"."

It's unusual for a really tall guy (6'8") to play IOL. Not to say Jones couldn't, but it's harder to get the ball out when you're throwing over or between guys with that size.

At this stage, Bakh has no impact on the cap post 2024.

1 points
1
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Handsback's picture

June 02, 2023 at 06:59 am

Bak is in his last season of playing for the Packers. He knows and the front office knows it as well. Not sure if the Packers can even trade him this year because of their need, but next year I could see it for sure.

9 points
13
4
thequick12's picture

June 02, 2023 at 07:55 am

He'll be traded prior to or during the 2024 draft to the NY Jets. Then given an extension by the Jets

-6 points
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greengold's picture

June 02, 2023 at 10:32 am

The thing is, the Jets currently have $24M of cap space to work with. They still need to sign Quinnen Williams, and would probably have enough left to do that and trade for Bakhtiari in 2023.

2024? Forget about it. The Jets are a projected $51M over the cap in 2024.

They are “all-in” for this year only. Next year? They bought themselves a shit storm.

-1 points
2
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Thegreatreynoldo's picture

June 05, 2023 at 03:49 am

The Jets are indeed $51M over the projected 2024 cap limit, but that is with Aaron Rodgers having a $107M cap number. It is unlikely that AR (or any other player for the foreseeable future) will end up having a $107M cap number.

0 points
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mnbadger's picture

June 02, 2023 at 12:22 pm

still hoping we pull the band aid off, trade him this year at highest remaining value, and move on with all that want to be here.
He's been a great Packer, on the field, in the locker room and in society.
But it's time for all.
GPG!

0 points
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1
dblbogey's picture

June 02, 2023 at 01:38 pm

I think we need him pretty badly for this final year, but we're going to need some tackles in the next draft.

4 points
4
0
The_Baloney_Stops_Here's picture

June 02, 2023 at 08:53 am

Zack Tom was the highest graded rookie pass blocker last year. Didnt even notice when Bakh was off the field. This team will be fine without Bakh.

-6 points
3
9
dobber's picture

June 02, 2023 at 09:19 am

I'd like to see the numbers to find out how much help Tom was given on the left side. I don't have a good feel for that at all. Tom played about 5 full games of snaps (295) at LT last year, and he looked good. By comparison, he tallied 96 snaps at LG, 14 at RG, and 84 at RT. Bottom line is that he really did play a lot last year. At this point, it's looking like LT could be his natural spot.

3 points
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The_Baloney_Stops_Here's picture

June 02, 2023 at 09:51 am

My thinking too.

1 points
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dblbogey's picture

June 02, 2023 at 01:41 pm

Many say center could be his best position. He looked good to me no matter where he played. He needs to be in the starting 5.

4 points
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PhantomII's picture

June 03, 2023 at 10:02 am

We've been without BAK for a couple years...so we're okay without him now...especially since he has not been a consistent starter for a full season in quite a while. His injury has not shown to be fully healthy and he has mitigated his practices and time during the week to be able to go on game day which does hamper the fielded teams timing , etc. in practices and operation in game. He's a professional, but one who has not proven to ever be the same as prior to injury. He's replaceable for 2 reasons....injury and cap hit, and both will make it 100% right move to move on next season. Both #1 picks 1 will more than likely be a good OT prospect as the other will more than likely be used on defense.

2 points
2
0
egbertsouse's picture

June 02, 2023 at 07:01 am

Yeah, he’s doing as little as possible to earn his money. That’s the kind of veteran leadership this team needs.

I always liked him but I have to say that I’ve seen him on the sideline in street clothes with a big smile on his face in numerous games. He didn’t look too distressed having to earn his million plus dollars a game while riding the pine. I think the guy has lost the fire.

3 points
12
9
NickPerry's picture

June 02, 2023 at 07:15 am

I love Bakhtiari and I do understand some of his comments recently. I'm not saying I like them, but I do understand why he might say some of the things he has recently. IIRC he wasn't happy with the way the Packers handled Josh Sitton and TJ Lang at the end of their Packers careers, ESPECIALLY Sitton, but now his BFF Aaron Rodgers is gone too as well as Mason Crosby. The dude looks around the locker room and probably thinks to himself, where the hell did everybody go?

My thought is this... IF the Packers are 3-5 or 2-6 (gulp) nearing the trade deadline (Deadline is typically after week 8 or thereabouts) then I think the Packers trade him to a contender WITHOUT a doubt. Get SOMETHING for him... BUT what if the Packers are 6-2 at the deadline? IMO if that's the case you KEEP Bakhtiari and then just eat the dead money next season.

This is what happens when you go "All In" and tray and win a SB with some aging players. If you win the SB like the Rams did then it's much less painful to GUT your team to just get back in the black. That didn't happen for GB so all the borrowing from Peter to pay Paul is now due. BUT, the good news is after 2024, when Bakhtiari's dead money is off the books, the Packers will be dealing with a healthy cap, a very young talented team, and hopefully a new LT named Zack Tom still on a rookie deal.

8 points
11
3
fthisJack's picture

June 02, 2023 at 08:04 am

I agree except if they keep him because the Packers are 6-2 and he is healthy and playing well....they could trade him next year and be off the hook for his deadcap in 24 if I am not mmistaken.

0 points
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The_Baloney_Stops_Here's picture

June 02, 2023 at 08:53 am

And now hes turning into Sitton 2.0. The entitlement is disgusting.

-5 points
3
8
coolhand's picture

June 02, 2023 at 12:07 pm

After the Packers cut Sitton he played 2 very mediocre years with the Bears, was hurt often, and then retired. The team was right to cut him when they did. It amazes me that these pro athletes feel they should be paid millions and not perform just because they have been around for a number of years.

0 points
3
3
Thegreatreynoldo's picture

June 05, 2023 at 04:31 am

GB cut Sitton in 2016. Sitton played 13 games (12 starts) and 732 snaps for Chicago while earning a pro bowl nod and an excellent 82.1 PFF grade.

Sitton played 712 snaps in 2017 and started 13 games. He earned an above average PFF grade of 76.

Sitton tore a rotator cuff during the first game of the 2018 season while with Miami, which ended his career.

GB had Sitton under contract for just the 2016 season. Cutting him just meant they didn't get a comp pick. Sitton had plenty in the tank and was worth the $6.5M GB saved. As it happened, Lane Taylor, who replaced Sitton, was a pleasant player who earned a 66 PFF grade. GB had to pay Taylor in 2017, and he was the starter for 2016 through 2018, when Elgton Jenkins claimed his spot.

As it happens, GB lost in the Conference Championship game to Atlanta when a bunch of guys got injured, including Taylor himself, who played just 18 snaps against Atlanta. So, the absence of Sitton probably was not a difference maker.

0 points
0
0
White92's picture

June 02, 2023 at 04:30 pm

If the Packers start out 6-2, I'll eat my hat

1 points
1
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SicSemperTyrannis's picture

June 02, 2023 at 04:37 pm

Somebody here is predicting 6-1.

0 points
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SicSemperTyrannis's picture

June 02, 2023 at 04:36 pm

I'm very curious if there's any cap hit irrevocably in the books for 2025. Also how much is inescapable for 2024. Not just Bakh, total.

1 points
1
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Thegreatreynoldo's picture

June 05, 2023 at 04:48 am

Depends a lot on what GB does with some of these players. That is, are there restructures in 2024 to save cap and are any guys cut for cap, injury or decline in performance? For 2025:

$13.75M - Kenny Clark
$9.880M - Preston Smith, but he under contract for '25 and '26.
$6.600M - Aaron Jones
$2.500M - Rasul Douglas
$7.9M? for Devondre Campbell? He's under contract for 2025 at $12.5M cap number but that might not seem like a lot if the cap limit is $275M?

0 points
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0
TKWorldWide's picture

June 02, 2023 at 07:20 am

GB very likely has 2 first round picks next year. They could add two solid contributors, or package them to move up for a guy they REALLY covet. Could be a QB (god, I hope not!) or a left tackle, or…whatever. They’ll have options for sure, and a much better overall cap situation.
Get your 🍿 ready.

9 points
10
1
mrtundra's picture

June 02, 2023 at 08:17 am

I think the Packers will draft the best OT they can, next draft. The guy, they feel, will be Bakh's replacement, for years to come. Let's enjoy Bakhtiari, as a GBP, while we can.

6 points
6
0
dobber's picture

June 02, 2023 at 09:24 am

Best case scenario is that they end up going into the 2024 draft with those first-round picks and no compelling needs driving those selections--meaning they have their heir-apparent LT on the roster, Love plays well, WRs develop and show promise, and the S position turns out to NOT be a dumpster fire.

Those are a lot of things that need to go right, so I'm going to anticipate that some gaping hole will drive draft priorities in 2024. Hopefully not at some position we thought was in good shape.

5 points
5
0
TKWorldWide's picture

June 02, 2023 at 12:16 pm

You are right, you never can tell.
But cap space and 2 firsts are sure nice to have!

And FTR, I think Love will do well.

1 points
1
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SicSemperTyrannis's picture

June 02, 2023 at 04:48 pm

MrTundra, I'm hoping Bakh's heir apparent is already on the roster and at least 2 emerge that aren't named Zach Tom. I hate the idea of a rookie LT next year.

There are 18 O linemen on the roster now.

-1 points
0
1
SicSemperTyrannis's picture

June 02, 2023 at 04:44 pm

TK, that's exactly what I've been thinking. With no cap space for marquee free agents, the positions of need are hopefully narrowed down by the next draft and Gutey can trade up for best of class to fill the only remaining weak spots. Then if 2025 actually has no dead cap, draft depth and load up on free agents for our next SB run. Best case scenario.

Worst case trade up as high as possible, but would they cut their losses on JL10 after 1 year under any circumstances? AR12's first year as a starter only had 6 wins, but he still had some impressive individual stats. This is well into crystal ball territory ...

3 points
3
0
croatpackfan's picture

June 02, 2023 at 07:48 am

For me it is intetesting to watch how many fans, including Bruce suddenly advocating for David Bakhtiari trade, first and foremost because of his cap hit for 2024. But, many of them were OK when old QB got that contract that trully ruined Packers cap space.

First, if we will talk that all players who are missing OTAs are preparing for trade lets talk about Jenkins, Jaire, Rasoul. Are they also preparing to ask for a trade.

Or, does that Bakh statement about Packers roster worries you all? Who cares what is his definition of change Packers are doing this season. He said that this is rebuilding because it is every time when you replace HOF QB with first year starter. That is his opinion. I can respect his opinion w/o agreeing with it.

When we were talking that ACR will retire, that huge contract he had with Packers was justify by rising of the Salary Cap. Do you expect that, when ACR traded his 40.5 mill $ will not influence on Packers SC. It will. With so many youth on the roster and rise of the Salary Cap, I do not see that 40 something mill $ on Bakh should be huge problem for Packers Salary Cap next year (2024!). Of course, if SC will be bigger, what everybody expect.

This and next season is time for healing SC. So, even if they do not reach the "extension" for David Bakhtiari, I see no problem with Salary cap.

Bakh, by himself was talking about the possibility that he and "them" (FO) will surely have to "restructure" his deal if "they" will be willing to continue mutual relationship.

He also said that it was wierd for him when he came few days ago and find out that he does not know a lot of players. But that quickly become funny and enjoyful for him. That does not sound like he has a problem to stay with Packers. Add to that statement from Elgton that they are looking to have the best left side of OL in the NFL and you'll have your answer.

If Packers will be 2-6 and Jordan Love would not be what we think he is, than I agree that rebuild might start and that on the trade block will be all players over or at 30 years old. But, even with that record if Jordan Love showed to be top 10 QB in the NFL, I doubt that will be the situation.

And regarding Sitton and Lang, when David mention them it looks like he used those 2 situation to explain his claim that he can not predict how things will go in the future.

That is from me about that issue.

4 points
7
3
dobber's picture

June 02, 2023 at 09:35 am

I tend to be where you are, Croat. He's talking off the cuff on podcasts as an old guard player on a roster that's turning over. Can we read things into it? Sure. Has he taken some shots at management? Yup. Is he actively going scorched earth on the Packers? Doesn't appear so.

We still don't know all the factors around his restructure--the lack of added years or void years that could've helped the Packers with their cap situation. Was that the Packers' choosing? Bakh's? In the end, it argues that there's likely to be one more year in this relationship. Bakh IS entering that phase of his career where he's becoming more passenger than captain of his ship....this restructure could be him trying to wrest some control while he's still got a few years left. A Bakhtiari that felt he didn't want to play much more, or was worried that he couldn't play much more, might be looking for a final payday.

Mostly, he's an amiable guy for whom nobody challenges his on-field effort and skill. I'm willing to wait and see how the dynamic shakes out once TC starts. I suspect the Packers FO won't have a lot of tolerance, now that we're past Jun 1, for a Bakhtiari who wants to actively be a shithead.

0 points
3
3
croatpackfan's picture

June 02, 2023 at 10:33 am

I agree with most what you said. I do not think David Bakhtiari is same type of person ACR is, nor that he is stupid. If they were similar, they wouldn't be friends. Huge ego do not tolerate another one in its company.

Second, what might pass under the radar, Bakh did say that Packers were good to him and that he is grateful for that.

1 points
4
3
mnbadger's picture

June 02, 2023 at 12:33 pm

I missed the shithead part of DBakh's comments?
Seemed to be speaking honestly, which I covet. I appreciate the truth. It's up to me how I deal with it.
Few people are willing to speak the truth, so hat's off to him.
Nothing but the best to you, 69, but I'm hoping your future plays out someplace else, like Houston or Arizona maybe. (higher position in the draft round)
GPG!

2 points
3
1
dobber's picture

June 03, 2023 at 10:08 am

Sorry. Meaning: if Bakh chooses at some point after camp starts to be a pain in the ass, I don't think the FO will have much tolerance for it.

0 points
0
0
Thegreatreynoldo's picture

June 05, 2023 at 04:52 am

3 downvotes. There are some hard core haters out there.

0 points
0
0
TKWorldWide's picture

June 02, 2023 at 12:17 pm

I also think Bruce did am amazing job coaching TB to a SB win a couple years ago!

2 points
2
0
TxFred's picture

June 02, 2023 at 07:49 am

Send him packing, while there is value. Attitude changed, doesn't need to contaminate the new teammates.

-4 points
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10
HawkPacker's picture

June 02, 2023 at 08:03 am

TXFred, I respectfully disagree. I think his attitude is fine.

To me the most important thing that we can learn this coming season is if Love is going to be the real deal at quarterback. Hopefully, he is our answer going forward. Having a great left tackle to protect his blind side should help us determine if Love is the answer. If not, hopefully we will have two first rounders next year and can use them to get us one of the two top quarterbacks in the draft.

I do hope that we/FO can determine that Love is the 'man'. And I really do hope Love is the answer.

6 points
6
0
dobber's picture

June 02, 2023 at 09:37 am

I agree: I don't know that his attitude has changed. He's been more in the background in the past. Now he's being given air time. I think he's always been pretty candid when asked.

8 points
8
0
PackAttackJack's picture

June 02, 2023 at 08:53 am

Totally agree. His attitude is poisonous.

-7 points
2
9
SicSemperTyrannis's picture

June 02, 2023 at 04:56 pm

I think that swallows media propaganda and takes it further. In context, I think his honesty is refreshing. I just wonder if GB gives him reason to play his best? No real possibility of contending for the Lombardi this year or next; to him, that's a 180.

0 points
0
0
greengold's picture

June 03, 2023 at 11:06 am

I cannot buy that there’s no real possibility of the Packers contending this year. Our schedule is such that combined with numerous unscouted looks our opponents will be faced with to start the season GB won’t be facing any world beaters, and this Packers team stands a pretty good chance to pile up Wins.

This young, talented, powerful & dynamic team could easily catch momentum during our first 8 weeks. Momentum is a very powerful thing. If they come out of that 6-2, or better? A different tune could & should rightly be sung.

By projections in Las Vegas, the Packers play only 5 teams with winning records in 2023, 6 teams with losing records, and 6 teams that will be .500 (per Bill Huber at SI).

@CHI
@ATL
NO
DET
@LVR
@DEN
MIN
LAR
@PIT
LAC
@DET
KC
@NYG
TB
@CAR
@MIN
CHI

1 points
1
0
Coldworld's picture

June 02, 2023 at 07:54 am

How Bakh fits in with this team has been debated for months. If he’s sustainably healthy then there is no doubt he’s our best OL going into this season, but there is an if in that statement that no one can answer, though the team should have a better idea than we do. That extra information not only has implications for his value in field, but potentially his trade value too.

In addition, we don’t really know what they think of Nijman, Tom, Jones, Walker and Tenuta or if they believe that, a year further in from his ACL, Jenkins is a valid tackle for the future. I do find it odd that they are working Tom in at RT. He’s not an obvious physical fit there as a strong side blocker. Could that mean that they see Bakh staying, feel that Nijman is just better in the left or just like Jones a lot more than we know? Jones has filled in for Bakh when he’s absent.

Lots of imponderables that affect how they perceive the future options other than Bakh as well as Bakh’s durability. It’s the margin of ability over their chosen first choice back up that defines the play value in the trade equation that counters the cost of foregoing picks now his cap hit from a trade isn’t prohibitive.

Given that none of us can have a truly informed clue about the real position with respect to the above, I think I like the idea that Caleb Jones is really that highly rated. It’s summer, let’s take the wildly optimistic stance and let things play out. Of course, that scenario would make a trade more likely, but not necessarily this season.

7 points
8
1
SicSemperTyrannis's picture

June 02, 2023 at 05:00 pm

CW, I'm also wondering which of the 18 O linemen currently on the roster that have never played are in contention for the 53 man roster, and could fill Bakh's shoes. I'm hoping we've got quality depth now ...

1 points
1
0
T7Steve's picture

June 02, 2023 at 07:58 am

I hope he stays at least for this season. I think he'll play like it's a contract year so that his market value will be great. Win for the Packers win for him. Linemen have been proving they can play into their late thirties.

One more season will help solidify our line options.

4 points
5
1
Since'61's picture

June 02, 2023 at 08:27 am

Bak is one of my favorite Packers, however if the Packers are going to trade Bak they should be working on making the trade now. The sooner the better. Waiting until either the middle of this season or until the end of this season will just mitigate his trade value either due to injury, his age or both.

I understand that there is a concern for protecting Love during his first season but won't protecting the blind side of the QB remain a concern for every season?

Except for Adams, the Packers FO kept the band together for at least one season too long. If possible make a deal now, get at least a 2nd rounder for Bak and move on. The team is going to take its lumps in 2023 whether Bak is here or not. Utilize the preseason to establish and develop the new "best five" to go forward with Love. Maybe we go left to right with Nijman, Jenkins, Tom, Myers or Runyon and Caleb Jones.

In any case if Bak gets hurt the OL will be a work in progress this season. Why wait until we possibly end up with no return for Bak? If the Packers are going youth movement get it done and move on adding more youth with every season. Build a new core for the team, end the cap hits and strategically add an FA or 2 in 2025 when the Packers are out of cap hell and hopefully ready to make a deep playoff run. Thanks, Since '61

3 points
9
6
HawkPacker's picture

June 02, 2023 at 09:03 am

Since'61, you mentioned Cox, who is a linebacker. Do you possibly mean Tom?

3 points
3
0
Since'61's picture

June 02, 2023 at 09:44 am

Yes I meant Tom. I have made the correction. Thanks HawkPacker for pointing out my error. Since '61

1 points
1
0
SicSemperTyrannis's picture

June 02, 2023 at 05:14 pm

How do you edit on this platform? I've tried both the app and the website and haven't been able to.

0 points
0
0
Thegreatreynoldo's picture

June 05, 2023 at 04:57 am

There should be an "edit" link on the bottom right of your own comments, well underneath the up and down vote square.

0 points
0
0
SicSemperTyrannis's picture

June 02, 2023 at 05:10 pm

Since'61,

the advantage I see to keeping Bakh for at least a few games in the regular season is if he doesn't play on turf at all, which I expect, that starts in week 2 and we get to see if anybody can fill his shoes. If a real SB loses their LT to injury and they make us an offer we can't refuse, that's how we get ideal trade value, already knowing we've got the position covered. (Hopefully with depth, too)

At a reduced workload, 5 games on artificial turf this season, how long does he even want to play? And does GB give him a reason to want to play his best? These are intangibles that matter, and crystal ball territory. If he's not motivated to play his best with no legitimate chance for a Lombardi this year or next, that could be cancer we're better off without.

1 points
1
0
Thegreatreynoldo's picture

June 05, 2023 at 05:00 am

I have no issue if GB trades Bakh now if they can get a first from a June or July trade. If not, wait for the trade deadline. If Bakh shows he can play 7 consecutive games, his value will increase.

I see you don't think Bakh's knee will hold up. No way really to know, so pursue a trade now and hope for the best if a good deal doesn't materialize.

1 points
1
0
LeotisHarris's picture

June 02, 2023 at 08:29 am

It’s Dave, man. Will you open up?

Who?

Dave, man. Open up.

Dave?

Yeah, Dave!

Dave?

Right, man. Dave. Now will you open up the door?

Dave’s not here.

6 points
9
3
greengold's picture

June 02, 2023 at 08:58 am

Style points awarded.

Cheeeeeeeech! Hey! Cheeeeeeeeeeeech!

2 points
3
1
Spock's picture

June 02, 2023 at 09:00 am

Ah, 2001 w/ apes dancing around a monolith. HAL the computer was great (and now people are worring about AI's taking over the world, Lol.).

2 points
2
0
dobber's picture

June 02, 2023 at 09:02 am

Wrong Dave, Spock.

But points for the imagery?

5 points
5
0
Johnblood27's picture

June 02, 2023 at 10:17 am

|
/

Fascinating...

Open the pod bay doors Hal...

and drop this out...

1 points
1
0
Spock's picture

June 03, 2023 at 06:34 am

Oops! My bad. :(

0 points
0
0
MooPack's picture

June 02, 2023 at 10:55 am

Classic

0 points
0
0
greengold's picture

June 02, 2023 at 08:38 am

The NFL is a young man's game. That fact seems to be lost on many of us, myself included. Did some digging on this, and the NFL has the youngest average age of any professional American sport at 26.6 years old. NFL careers average 3.3 years. Teams generally cut bait with older players with big cap hits.

David Bakhtiari is in my opinion the best LT in the NFL, when healthy. Bak has played in 12 games since 2020. He'll be 32 in September. I think there's room for him to be extended one more time in terms of age. LT Jason Peters played on a 1 year deal last year with PHI at the age of 40. His season was cut short in December 2022 when he had surgery on his toe. Three of Jason Peters' last 4 seasons ended with him on IR.

Oddly enough, Peters' last game in the NFL may have been against us, the Packers, when he hobbled off with his toe injury Nov. 27th of last year.

Screw all the young team stuff. Bakhtiari will be fine as a team leader for a very young Packers team. If we have the best LT in the NFL, he's going to cost a ton of dough. Who would anyone rather have protecting Jordan Love's blindside in his first year starting at QB1?

Not the worst situation to have your LT being the top $ contract on your cap, and a young QB1 far below. Work the extension to take some of the heat off of the 2024 cap, absorb the majority of the hit in 2025 when we'll have over $100M more cap space than we are used to having, and take it from there.

The questions are:
1. How long Bakhtiari will be able to hold up physically?
2. What is the value of keeping him?
3. Is now the time when the Packers can get the best value return for DB in trade?

4 surgeries since 2020. His cap $ is the most of any player in the NFL at his position, by more than a mile. His tradability from a cap standpoint will never be better than right now, as most any team in the NFL will be able to take on his current $1.165M base salary.

Tough calls possibly being made at 1265 Lombardi Avenue today, June 2nd, 2023 thru the deadline not yet announced, but usually the Tuesday after Week 8.

11 points
13
2
The_Baloney_Stops_Here's picture

June 02, 2023 at 08:56 am

Front office needs to send a strong message. The Age of Entitletown is over. Send his ass packing to the worst team possible. Tired of these overpaid crybabies shitting on the G.

-14 points
2
16
greengold's picture

June 02, 2023 at 09:27 am

Hey, The_Baloney_Stops_Here!

He has made his comments known. No doubt. But, he's not a guy who minces words. He also doesn't make statements with a preconceived notion that every word will be dissected by the media and the Packers fan base.

He's made some very positive comments of late regarding Jordan Love.

"He's been good. It's kind of nice seeing him be his own man, not that he ever wasn't, but there's obviously like, you know the role you are being the backup," said Bakhtiari. "He knows it. Until told otherwise, he's going to be the starting quarterback of the Green Bay Packers when we go out there."

"My biggest thing with him is: I don't need you to be anything different than you were, you don't need to be Aaron. So whatever is comfortable for you, let's do that."

https://lombardiave.com/posts/packers-david-bakhtiari-perfect-reaction-j...

To me, those comments say "I'm staying in Green Bay," more than any Bakhtiari has made to date on the subject.

Probably best to let it play out in the manner the team feels is optimal moving forward for the Packers. Take a back seat as a fan. I was convinced he would follow AR to NYJ, and thought his pro AR comments indicated that would happen. There's a chance he made those very public statements to support of his friend, but that he might in the same breath personally prefer to stay with the Packers. It's wonky, but... possible.

Now we just get to let the chips fall where they may.

Not an easy decision for Gutekunst. The money part of this is definitely writing on the wall. I do believe if there ever was a time to trade Bakhtiari, it is now, in order to get their best value return. He's on the other side of the age wheel, and also proved his top form in his last 11 games played in 2022. A QB1 as young and as well trained as JL gets the ball out incredibly fast, which would offset LT learning curves. Plus, Yosh is a known quality starter at LT.

4 points
5
1
KnockTheSnotOutOfYou's picture

June 02, 2023 at 09:45 am

With his injuries/surgeries and lack of playing time since 2020 combined with his persona of being 'Joe Dude' and just down-to-earth I really wanted to see DB driving a beat up Barney Rubble type dilapidated old rusty pickup with the floor boards gone at the Packer Friday Night Scrimmage last August. I didn't want to see DB acting like everyone else driving this cool & ubber expensive car like most all the players drive......but sadly for me he was driving some car most of us would need to sell our home to be able to purchase.

Sigh! My impression of DB was gone in a flash when I saw him in this car. LOL!

Anyway, he has been one hell of a good LT for the GBP's for a lot of years, but between now and the trading deadline that Nick & GG have pointed out if I was Gutey I'd be very much open to listening to possible trade opportunities, but only if the Packers received 'significant' compensation they could use to greatly improve the team in 2024. I will say the only hesitation in a trade this year as someone mentioned above should be if the Packers have a strong win record heading towards the trade deadline and DB is playing really well. If the team is struggling there are a bunch of young OL the Packers who absolutely need to play, so we see what we have prior to the 2024 draft. Guys like Walker, Jones, Rhyan, Tenuta, Tom, Nijiman, and Delance. Are any of them legitimate, or do the Packers need to invest a first round/second round pick next year at OL?

8 points
8
0
SicSemperTyrannis's picture

June 02, 2023 at 05:40 pm

Knock, I agree it's the current depth in the building that's the single biggest variable right now. 18 O linemen on the roster, can anyone fill Bakh's shoes? And how do you answer that without regular season games?

If Bakh doesn't play on turf at all this year, that starts week 2 and includes 5 games. Right now I see this as a great opportunity to evaluate this whole situation, which is very important to the whole team. Another angle is with the reduced workload, does it keep Bakh injury free and playing at his best for at least 3 years?

Where did I leave my crystal ball ...

1 points
1
0
jannes bjornson's picture

June 02, 2023 at 12:18 pm

If he has a solid year, extend him. Bag another OT or two in the 2024 draft to hedge and fill the RT spot. No need to go into panic mode, he has ALL PRO talent. They have the money.

3 points
3
0
SicSemperTyrannis's picture

June 02, 2023 at 05:42 pm

The money is just crazy. Almost $20MM without him, $40MM if he plays next year. If the salary cap is $250MM? This is nuts

0 points
0
0
SicSemperTyrannis's picture

June 02, 2023 at 05:32 pm

GG, excellent write-up!

It seems to me that the player's union is making more terms set in stone, decreasing the value of an agent. I think they should allow aging players to play for LESS salary than when they were in their prime, and this would be good for everyone involved. This is the opposite from what unions are prone to do.

With Bakh specifically, does his trade value increase if a SB contender has their LT go down due to injury in the regular season? Would they make us an offer we can't refuse? If he doesn't play on turf at all that starts week 2, for a total of 5 games this season. That both gives us a window to see if anybody can fill his shoes, and it helps keep him injury free just by reduced playing time.

Hopefully Gutey has these details clearly in focus; it's risk management. Where's the payoff? Off-season should help fill in the variable of depth behind Bakh, but not like regular season games. With 18 O linemen currently on the roster, I'm hoping Bakh's backup is in the building NOW, and a little more experience makes a world of difference ...

Maybe the hardest variable to assess is if Bakh has the motivation to play his best this season and next with no real shot at a Lombardi, that's a complete 180 for him.

1 points
1
0
The_Baloney_Stops_Here's picture

June 02, 2023 at 08:42 am

Im already tired of talking about this guy. Just wish he would shut up and focus on football. If these guys care so much about being heard, then quit and go start a podcast. Hes not God's gift to football. Hes replacable just like everyone else.

-12 points
4
16
Rarescope's picture

June 02, 2023 at 09:59 am

Well, it's jack...es like you consuming sports media that drives demand for reporters to talk to these guys and report on what they are saying so... if you want them to shut up and focus on football maybe you should skip the forums and just watch the games.

9 points
9
0
The_Baloney_Stops_Here's picture

June 02, 2023 at 07:26 pm

Oh you poor thing. Did i strike nerve? Mean guy on the interwebs said hurty words about my heewo. This prick will make more in a year than everyone who frequents this board combined. But in your little fanboy brain Im the badguy here? I would say kiss my ass but its clear your lips are already busy. Grown ass man defending a petulant millionaire. You make me sick.

-2 points
0
2
SicSemperTyrannis's picture

June 02, 2023 at 05:44 pm

The news cycle went 24/7 after 9/11. The NFL is kinda late to the party.

You can tune out, sometimes we all need to ...

1 points
1
0
The_Baloney_Stops_Here's picture

June 02, 2023 at 07:34 pm

I shouldnt have to tune out. Thats the whole point.

-1 points
0
1
Ferrari-Driver's picture

June 02, 2023 at 09:07 am

Just as the former Atlanta Falcons head coach said many years ago "The NFL stands for Not For Long" and that could very well apply to our left tackle, David Bakhtari.

Every year the Packers have a "New" team and players come and go. However, it looks like we are going to have David Bakhtari as our stalwart at left tackle this year and I want to ride that horse as long as he is wearing the Green and Gold.

8 points
10
2
CoachJV's picture

June 02, 2023 at 09:41 am

Why? He can't run-block anymore since the surgery... He still pass-blocked okay last season, but a good LT has to do both. It's not just about keeping Love on his feet, it's also about opening holes for Jones and getting to that 2nd level in run-blocking. Bak cannot get to the 2nd level anymore.

-7 points
2
9
greengold's picture

June 02, 2023 at 10:42 am

68.5 run blocking grade in 2022 according to PFF.

It’s a factor few may wish to overlook.

-1 points
1
2
croatpackfan's picture

June 02, 2023 at 10:48 am

He is finally healthy and past the after injury and past post operative recovery. Now he can play with no hesitation. And you want to rid of him? Really? Lets see how he will play in TC and preseason, than we can talk if he is capable or not.

And, by the way, every person is different in recovery process and recovery to previous of him/her. One of the most important development in medicine came with "personalized medicine" were physicians finaly accepted that different persons reacts different on the average therapy.

It is the individuality issue. Not to jump with conclusions!

2 points
2
0
SicSemperTyrannis's picture

June 02, 2023 at 05:50 pm

Your evaluation is not professional. Recovery takes time. I saw him DOMINATE. Our whole coaching staff needs to develop and evaluate the whole 90 man roster much moreso than any recent season. And I have to expect Bakh will play 0 downs in exhibition games.

This coaching skillset is completely different from what's needed starting week 1.

0 points
1
1
greengold's picture

June 02, 2023 at 07:08 pm

It’s not until one solid year post surgery anyone can really, truly start forgetting about the injured area.

Agree.

-1 points
0
1
KnockTheSnotOutOfYou's picture

June 02, 2023 at 09:18 am

The good thing is 'after' the 2023 season the Packers are going to know a lot more about Caleb Jones, Zack Tom, Rasheed Walker, Luke Tenuta, Nijiman, and Jean Delance. Hopefully the Packers are smart enough to allow some of these guys to get significant playing experience to know what they have in them prior to the 2024 NFL Draft......unlike how they screwed up with Jordan Love by not playing him in 2022 when AR had the injured thumb. I still believe this is why the Packers likely did not make the playoffs in 2022 because they refused to play JL during that time.

With possibly two first round draft choices next year (minimum of 3 picks in the first two rounds) I have ZERO doubt at least one of those picks will be for an OT, which almost certainly will be in the first round. Throw in the fact that Runyan's contract, and I believe Nijiman's is up after 2023, and the Packers need to invest heavily in OL next year. The only exception is if they provide some of these players mentioned above playing time this year to see what we have. It is my hope a few of these young players step up and perform well minimizing the need to use so much draft capital on OL next year.

7 points
8
1
Ferrari-Driver's picture

June 02, 2023 at 09:31 am

Hey Snot, I'm with you on that one.

3 points
3
0
dobber's picture

June 02, 2023 at 09:42 am

"The good thing is 'after' the 2023 season the Packers are going to know a lot more about Caleb Jones, Zack Tom, Rasheed Walker, Luke Tenuta, Nijiman, and Jean Delance"

Fully believe that this is why they didn't actively look to part ways with Bakhtiari--and, again, I was fully in favor of moving him up 'til his restructure.

I think they want a good long look a these guys, and need to determine whether or not they want to invest in Nijman--and it's much easier and more conducive to growth broadly on the offense to do that from a position of strength than by jumping in with both feet and finding out you were dead wrong on those guys.

8 points
8
0
greengold's picture

June 02, 2023 at 10:15 am

Hey Knock!

In life I've found "follow the money," to be a reliable indicator of where things will go, on just about any subject.

I want Bakhtiari to stay in GB and play LT for the Packers at his known NFL top form for the next 3-4 years, if possible. That would put him at 35-36 years old by the end of an added 3 year extension. How realistic is that given his injury history?

Maybe Bakhtiari doesn't want to stay in GB in a rebuild. Simple as that. Maybe the Packers want to mitigate the injury risk by trading him. Can't argue that one.

The fact that his last contract restructure did not include VOID years (the ONLY PLAYER out of all those contracts reworked to fit AR's dead cap charge to make the NYJ trade possible), and was set up to be highly tradable, given his low $1.165M base salary, indicates he's outta here.

That's been my take ever since I saw how crazily those numbers fell.

I want him to stay, retire a Packers player with rings on his fingers, but the money part of this to me says otherwise.

Waiting until next year to trade Bakhtiari would have to involve an extension, because his dead cap hit in 2024 will be around $20M, and the team trading for him would be on the hook for his $20M base salary. That makes no sense of other teams.

Nijman may be able to provide the quality level of play required at LT for GB in 2023. Maybe Jones proves to be a capable backup LT. Maybe one of the many other OTs we have on this roster provides an answer. Gutekunst & Co. have a lot to figure out there. It could be that they've already figured it out and he gets traded this afternoon to NYJ.

0 points
3
3
croatpackfan's picture

June 02, 2023 at 10:54 am

"Maybe Bakhtiari doesn't want to stay in GB in a rebuild."

He already stay in this, phase 1 of retooling (or, by him, rebuilding).

GG, he is different person than ACR is. ACR talks cryptic and David talks honest and open and clear! There is not a book behind after he say one sentence. That sentence from Bakh is what he ment. When you listen ACR, you can find not book, but library of what he ment with his one sentence. That is how manipulators talks...

1 points
3
2
SicSemperTyrannis's picture

June 02, 2023 at 05:58 pm

Knock, you've picked 6 guys out of 18 O linemen currently on the roster to be the top contenders. Maybe you're right; some of those names have great measurables. The best measurement is performance. Coaches get to earn their money solving this puzzle! I hope they're developing all 90 and creating honest competition.

2 points
2
0
CoachJV's picture

June 02, 2023 at 09:39 am

It is now after June 1... we should trade him now. He's going to be a cancer in the locker room, and he can't run-block since the surgery. Send him to the Jets to be with his buddy.

-6 points
4
10
croatpackfan's picture

June 02, 2023 at 10:57 am

No. Bakh is not cancer in the locker room. He is just honest and open guy. He will not say something that you can understand differently every time you hear that one sentence.

ACR talks like cancer and was cancer in the locker room. Bakh is different personality.

1 points
3
2
SicSemperTyrannis's picture

June 02, 2023 at 06:02 pm

Coach, first of all, isn't he the one that said taxes make him uninterested in playing in NY? Vegas he would consider.

I don't agree that Bakh is anything less than dominant. You're evaluating him before he recovered.

His attitude is honest. The question is, would he be motivated to play his best here this season and next with no real chance for a SB? That's a 180 for him.

4 points
4
0
beerandbrats's picture

June 02, 2023 at 09:51 am

I expected Bak to be traded to the Jets shortly after June 1st based upon his recent comments, the AR12 trade and the Jets not being able to pick up a tackle in the first round. His recovery from the knee injury is still questionable and you know AR12 wants him protecting his blind side so I recommend the Packers get this trade done. He has been one of the best while wearing green and gold but the cap situation is a mess and it is time to move on and clean things up.

-1 points
4
5
SicSemperTyrannis's picture

June 02, 2023 at 06:03 pm

Bakh has said he will not play for NY because of taxes. Vegas ok.

1 points
1
0
stockholder's picture

June 02, 2023 at 10:09 am

The writing is on the wall, No doubt about that.
The only thing that matters now, is money.
So screw the job appreciation. The Loyalty.
The Friendship. The Rebuild. The print.

His body has taken enough.
There is nothing more to learn.
And before he gets betrayed.
He’s going to Tell it like it is.
The Bond is Broken. (Rodger's left )
The realization of a ring is Dead.

-1 points
6
7
LeotisHarris's picture

June 02, 2023 at 10:28 am

One of your very best posts, stockholder; powerful and unnerving with just a hint of nostalgia. Tip of the hat to you.

3 points
4
1
Johnblood27's picture

June 02, 2023 at 10:32 am

The writing is on the wall, No doubt about that.
the writing is always there to see, it is called a contract and a CBA

The only thing that matters now, is money.
Money has always been the only thing that mattered in the professional game of football.

So screw the job appreciation. The Loyalty.
This isn't an altruistic endeavor, loyalty is dealt out just like respect... in $$$$$

The Friendship. The Rebuild. The print.
Friends come and go, players come and go, some say rebuild, some say reload.

His body has taken enough.
If this is so, just retire and do not scam any NFL team for more $$$ when the asset(body) is gone.

There is nothing more to learn.
Based on many of his immature words and actions DB has a lot to learn concerning life.

And before he gets betrayed.
You are truly an azzhat. Look at the respect and loyalty the GBP have shown DB in terms both sides recognize, namely $$$. He has been well taken care of including his pay and
care when he was not playing due to injury.

He’s going to Tell it like it is.
Like far too many today, oral diarrhea seems to be an epidemic. Social media is a cesspool of ignorance.

The Bond is Broken. (Rodger's left )
Follow Jim Jones to Jonestown and drink the Kool-aid, go ahead stoopid ones.

The realization of a ring is Dead.
Defeatist. Just simply a complete LOSER mentality.

2 points
6
4
greengold's picture

June 02, 2023 at 11:26 am

You can just say asshat.

LOL

OMG. This stuff is bananas. When Bak signed that contract restructure, with zero VOID years, and a mere $1.165M base salary, the remainder fronted to him in a suitcase full of cash on Friday, March 10th, 2023, the same day Aaron Rodgers made his decision he wanted to play for the Jets...???

Well, I can add. I'll be shocked if he isn't shipped out soon. I wonder what the Packers will get for him from the Jets in trade?

Keeping him for another year? I just find it so incredibly unlikely, because that restructure has a 20 megaton cap crushing bomb attached to it next year. We can't restructure a restructure. An extension the Packers only recourse, and adios "trade value."

Bakhtiari is set to make nearly $20M MORE than the highest rated OT in the NFL next season.

-4 points
0
4
CheesedDeadHead's picture

June 02, 2023 at 11:47 am

"Social media is a cesspool of ignorance."

Social media would be fine if people actually new 1/10th of what they think they know.

1 points
1
0
mnbadger's picture

June 02, 2023 at 01:21 pm

me included in the 1/10th knowledge part.
It's when they act like they and they alone know everything and opposing views are from satanists and pedophiles.
GPG!

1 points
1
0
Coldworld's picture

June 02, 2023 at 11:20 am

Bakh has always talked from the hip. He’s just that kind of personality. He calls it like he sees it. I tend to agree with him when he says this is a rebuild as he defines one. Unless I’ve missed something, this is mostly a fracas based on nothing but a guy who speaks his mind.

Bakh has actually been encouraging of the young guys around him and watching Love start to be himself. Moreover he was pretty explicit in his last comments about the fact that he’s has a good relationship with the team. Something ESPN and some others did not mention. Here is that part of his last set if comments:

““Whatever they want to have me to be for this team, I’m going to be for the team,” said Bakhtiari, a 2013 fourth-round pick from Colorado. “We’ve had a great relationship over the decade and going into my 11th year, and that’s how I’m going to treat it. I’m not going to sit here and be a (ticked) off old veteran. I’ve been very fortunate and blessed. I’m a Day 3 guy who worked his (butt) off.

“At times, Green Bay was very happy and very fortunate for what I was doing for them, and at times I’ve been very fortunate for what Green Bay’s done for me. So that’s exactly how I’m looking at it.””

It always helps to have heard the full comments/read the original.

9 points
9
0
greengold's picture

June 02, 2023 at 11:31 am

Well put, my friend.

I was trying to explain that very same thing earlier, but you spelled it out far better than I could.

Reading his statements, all of them up until his recent ones on JL, none of them struck me to be from the point of view of a player who is staying in GB. He definitely, masterfully, leaves his out in play, and sounds way more out than all-in to me.

Agree on reading/spelling it all out in gaining proper context.

1 points
2
1
SicSemperTyrannis's picture

June 02, 2023 at 06:09 pm

CW, thank you for adding this important context! I'm not reading the tea leaves. I think this could go either way, or any of several ways ...

1 points
1
0
CheesedDeadHead's picture

June 02, 2023 at 11:36 am

"The writing is on the wall, No doubt about that.
The only thing that matters now, is money.
So screw the job appreciation. The Loyalty.
The Friendship. The Rebuild. The print.

His body has taken enough.
There is nothing more to learn.
And before he gets betrayed.
He’s going to Tell it like it is.
The Bond is Broken. (Rodger's left )
The realization of a ring is Dead."

If Ted Kaczynski had internet I wonder if this would be like one of his "rants"...

4 points
6
2
KnockTheSnotOutOfYou's picture

June 02, 2023 at 01:58 pm

😃

1 points
1
0
KnockTheSnotOutOfYou's picture

June 02, 2023 at 01:22 pm

Holy Hanna SH!

Here I am sitting on my front porch in my favorite rocker/swivel/glider chair & there is this nice breeze as I look at & admire my flower garden thinking 'My God it is a wonderful day!'

However, after reading your depressing post I immediately felt my dopamine rush crash....like immediately!

-3 points
1
4
stockholder's picture

June 02, 2023 at 02:55 pm

No - Whats depressing is paying a guy too early.
And ending up paying medical bills too.

0 points
3
3
TXCHEESE's picture

June 02, 2023 at 11:02 am

A solid running game is a young QB's best friend, and when Bak and Jenkins are healthy, they make for a great team on the left side. There is always going to be the risk of injury regardless of age, so I say keep those guys together. If the offense starts to jell and have some success, I could see Bak and the FO extending for 2-3 years, giving the team the opportunity to spread things out cap-wise.

If Bak is becoming a malcontent, then yes trade him for a 2, and get on down the road.

3 points
3
0
TXCHEESE's picture

June 02, 2023 at 11:02 am

dup

0 points
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Coldworld's picture

June 02, 2023 at 11:30 am

It gets overlooked, but Nijman was actually the best graded OT on run block win rate in the NFL by ESPN last season. Bakh was 2nd in pass win rate. No one else on the packers OL made either list at any position.

https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/34536376/2022-nfl-pass-rushing-run-s...

4 points
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greengold's picture

June 02, 2023 at 11:48 am

Good to see Elton come in at #8 for OG run block win rate. Not bad for a player of his stature a year removed from ACL surgery.

3 points
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Coldworld's picture

June 02, 2023 at 12:26 pm

Oops, forgot him.

2 points
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greengold's picture

June 02, 2023 at 11:36 am

Oddly, TXCHEESE, our LEFT SIDE was our worst side to run from in 2022 according to Football Outsiders data. I posted it a few weeks ago.

Granted, it was a mix of Bakhtiari, Nijman, Runyan & Jenkins, as Jenkins started RT for 5-6 games last year, Bakhtiari played 11... Nijman picked up the LT starts...

Bak's PFF run blocking grade of 68.5 last year was low. Not Jon Runyan 53.6 low, but low for Bakhtiari.

2 points
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SicSemperTyrannis's picture

June 02, 2023 at 06:19 pm

GG, this oddity definitely cost us some wins last year. It makes Quadzilla look bad, undeservedly. I also don't think what the room coach said is reasonable; if he's used mostly on 3rd down and converts consistently? I call that success even if it's a 1.5 yard average. So many variables ...

I also want to see at least 3 RBs used this season, and keep #33 at his best and feeling good. Use him as a special weapon, keep him for when he's needed. If he has to be the bell cow all the time that means we have no depth, and we shorten his career. We couldn't keep this double headed monster and Jamaal Williams, that's not a mistake that's a cap casualty that really hurt. Hopefully at least one of these new guys emerges as a beast!

1 points
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Thegreatreynoldo's picture

June 05, 2023 at 05:28 am

68.5 run block grade is still above average. In any event, Bakh has always been a great pass blocker and a good run blocker. His run block grade may have slipped, but it is still perfectly fine.

0 points
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Alberta_Packer's picture

June 02, 2023 at 11:44 am

With Bakh - it's one of those 'one year early rather than one year late' scenarios for me. Not unlike the Rodgers conundrum. Should Bakh be physically sound - then there would be no question that he should be retained for this year and possibly the next. But his availability is the big question for me. Already he has had multiple surgeries in an ageing body (in NFL time) with a recent history of not being able to play a full schedule or even a season. In short, his body is currently held together by glue, stitches and prayer. I feel that he is just one inadvertent bump of landing on the IRL (again).

So I would play the higher probability - that he won't be available for the entire season and look to trade him while he can still pass a physical - which is not a given. If he can't - then there are no choices - GB keeps him and we keep our fingers crossed. If he can - then I would look to convert his value into draft capital or a promising prospect. As to the draft capital - it has to be at least a second round pick.

Now do I think that the Packers will trade Bakh? No. Given their penchant for non-opportunism - I expect that he will attempt to be the starting LT this season. And as a Bakh admirer - I will really hope that he enjoys a relatively healthy season. Also for Love's sake.

5 points
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greengold's picture

June 02, 2023 at 11:59 am

Yeah, but I just don't see how he's tradable next season given his contract. $40M cap hit. That's just stupid money.

Some may say we cannot live without him. Maybe. Maybe not. I mean, Nijman had a 74.4 pass blocking grade last year according to PFF. Jordan Love gets that ball out fast, mitigating some pass rush concerns there.

*For comparison: Aaron Rodgers' Advanced Stats show he ranked #31 in the NFL amongst QBs in Pace of Play.

2 points
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Alberta_Packer's picture

June 02, 2023 at 12:19 pm

I agree. In reality there are probably few if any suitors for Bakh - especially given his onerous contract and physical frailty. I know that some people think that the Jets should be interested but I doubt that. Only one Jet would be interested and that would not be the GM, President or Owner.

1 points
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BirdDogUni's picture

June 02, 2023 at 02:14 pm

I would venture to bet the HC and QB would both love to see 69 on their opening day roster...

I think it would be pretty easy to trade Bakh to the Jets. All they would have to do is give up next year's 1st rounder. ; P

Oh, wait, make that their '25 first rounder...

1 points
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Alberta_Packer's picture

June 02, 2023 at 03:45 pm

I would add Cobb and Lazard to the welcome committee. The old gang rides again! How about the Jets 2nd for Bakh?

1 points
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Leatherhead's picture

June 02, 2023 at 12:58 pm

The way I read it, from Spotrac, is that in 2024, he's 20M on the books from his signing bonus and restructured money.

The other $20 million is salary and workout bonuses, which wouldn't apply if he's not on the team.

Any team that wants to trade for him would have to assume that $20 million. That's probably not a deal breaker for a team looking for a really good Left Tackle.

I'm kind of philosophically opposed to doing things that weaken your offensive line, and clearly that would be the case if we traded Bakhtiari. The Big IF is that IF Bakhtiari and Jenkins stay healthy, that's a real good left side of the line. We only have six quality starters, so we can only withstand one injury. After that, we're going to see a drop in quality.

I'd like to see Bakhtiari stay this year and get traded after the season. I'd like to see all of our offensive linemen stay healthy. I'd like to see some of these projects like Rhyan and Jones and Walker show that they're ready to play in an NFL game next year.

0 points
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KnockTheSnotOutOfYou's picture

June 02, 2023 at 01:28 pm

Alberta,
I love this as it is sooo....friggin true!

"Given their (Packers) penchant for non-opportunism - I expect that he will attempt to be the starting LT this season."

I am seeing though a GM in Gutey who is willing to take a few risks. That he is departing from the TT approach. Long over due IMHO!

1 points
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Racingdad's picture

June 02, 2023 at 01:47 pm

The jets do have a new assistant owner, gm, and hc so if that guy wants him there it will happen !! Some people don’t get how cap works yea if d Bach is a packer next year with no change to contract it would be 40 mil cap hit in 24 if traded or cut 20 million as that is for money already paid to him in past but counted forward. So his actually salary for 24 is 20 million if traded he would count only 1.165 mil in 23 than 20 mil in 24 for the new team .

1 points
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greengold's picture

June 02, 2023 at 07:17 pm

I’ve got one last note on Bakhtiari. There is no way we should trade him to the Jets for less than 2 R1s, in 2025 & 2026.

What do those equate to in 2024???

Whoever trades for him won’t have to pay him this year save for that paltry $1.165M base. That alone is worth an R2. Nearly $20M … To people saying an R2: are you kidding me?

The Packers can’t GIVE one of the best OTs in the NFL away with 90% of his salary FULLY PAID FOR, for an R2??? Hell no, and I could care less about Aaron Rodgers.

“Think about the deal you’re making before speaking” is a mantra of deal makers.

We don’t have to trade him, and I’d rather he play for us to finish his career as opposed to giving him to another team for a song. At 32? A 3 year extension? Play him only on grass?

-1 points
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Paul Konieczny's picture

June 02, 2023 at 10:16 pm

Dave’s a pro, been good for a long time. He will be fine.

2 points
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Ritzy's picture

June 03, 2023 at 12:27 am

I love Bak but he doesn't fit into the team's long term plans, so trade him now and put Tom in at left tackle.

0 points
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Rebelgb's picture

June 03, 2023 at 10:53 am

Wait, hold up: Did DB say he wasnt playing on turf this year or did someone on the coaching staff or FO say that? I must have missed something. When did he say this? On a podcast?

Ive always liked DB, and all the background seems to be hes a decent guy. BUT, if a player making his kind of money, hell any NFL player says they have decided there is a certain amount of games they arent going to play because they dont like the "turf", well that player can go pound sand somewhere else. That shit might fly in Dallas or Vegas; no way in GB.

Send his ass packing if he said it. There has to be at least 2 or 3 teams this year who feel they are "all in" who need a LT right? Even if it he only wants to play 12 instead of 17 games. The Pack isnt all in, so a guy like that has to go..........

Is this the NBA?

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Thegreatreynoldo's picture

June 05, 2023 at 05:34 am

Bakh never said that.
None of the coaches said that.

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