“Packers’ Star Tackle David Bakhtiari’s Fate Hangs in the Balance: Will He Soar with the Jets or Take a Shocking Exit?”

The Green Bay Packers find themselves grappling with familiar challenges this offseason, bidding farewell to long-time stalwarts. In the spring of 2024, the focus is on the future of David Bakhtiari and the conundrum presented by his substantial contract, prompting scrutiny from Marcus Mosher of Pro Football Focus.

Mosher’s assessment, published on December 15, delves into the pivotal decision looming for the Packers’ front office—whether to explore trading their five-time All-Pro left tackle. Bakhtiari, among the NFL’s highest-paid offensive tackles, has only participated in 13 games over the last three seasons. With a hefty $40.5 million cap hit in 2024, there’s speculation that Bakhtiari might seek an exit.

Despite an impressive record of allowing just one sack since the start of the 2020 season, Bakhtiari’s value is clouded by his limited game time due to chronic knee issues. The combination of these health concerns and the burdensome contract makes the prospect of a trade for Green Bay seem improbable.

Entering the final year of his four-year, $92 million contract in 2024, Bakhtiari’s cap number was inflated to $40.5 million after a recent restructuring by the Packers. This move aimed to free up $7.5 million in salary cap space for the current season.

A potential trade partner would face substantial financial implications without guarantees of Bakhtiari’s availability or returning to his All-Pro caliber. Consequently, the more plausible scenario is the Packers releasing the former star, saving $21.5 million. This would pave the way for Bakhtiari to explore free agency, sparking interest across the NFL for a reasonably-priced acquisition of the accomplished offensive lineman.

A notable possibility is a reunion with Aaron Rodgers on the New York Jets. The Jets, lacking a proficient left tackle, could be an attractive destination for Bakhtiari, especially considering Rodgers’ presence as the starting quarterback in the 2024 season. Rodgers’ move to the Jets in 2023 saw him bring former Packers teammates, including wide receivers Allen Lazard and Randall Cobb. Bakhtiari’s ties to this roster and the Jets’ need for offensive line assistance align, making New York a viable option.

The Jets, bolstered by a stout defense for two seasons and the resurgence of running back Breece Hall after an ACL tear in 2022, could emerge as a serious Super Bowl contender in the upcoming season if they maintain good health. The prospect of Bakhtiari joining the Jets adds an intriguing dimension to the unfolding narrative of the Packers’ offseason transitions.