Left tackle David Bakhtiari posted a farewell message to Green Bay on social media early Monday, and the Packers made it official.
Green Bay released Bakhtiari, making him a free agent.
“I would like to thank David for 11 outstanding seasons in Green Bay,” Packers general manager Brian Gutekunst said in a statement. “From the moment he arrived, David established himself as one of the best tackles of his generation and one of the best linemen in Packers history. His dedication and impact on the field and in the locker room was outstanding. We cannot stress this enough. We look forward to his inevitable induction into the Packers Hall of Fame and wish David and his family all the best going forward.”
The Packers drafted Bakhtiari in the fourth round in 2013, and he was named a two-time first-team All-Pro and a three-time second-team All-Pro. He also won three Pro Bowls.
Bakhtiari, 32, tore his ACL late in the 2020 season and has only played in 13 games over the past three seasons.
The Jets would be a natural destination for Bakhtiari given his relationship with quarterback Aaron Rodgers, but Bakhtiari only played one game in 2023, so it remains to be seen whether anyone will sign him. I don't know.
“David is one of the best offensive linemen to have played in the NFL during my time in the league. His consistency and approach to his craft is unparalleled,” said the Packers coach. Matt LaFleur said in a statement. “David's presence extends beyond his impact on the field and in the locker room when I arrived he was a cornerstone of the Packers and a great resource for a young team. And I wish his daughter Felix all the best in the future.”
