Packers GM 'cautiously optimistic' about Bakhtiari's recovery

Green Bay Packers offensive tackle David Bakhtiari underwent offseason knee surgery and has been placed on the PUP list. Dan Powers/USA TODAY NETWORK-Wisconsin via Imagn Content Services, LLC

Packers GM Brian Gutekunst 'cautiously optimistic' about OL David Bakhtiari's recovery after offseason knee procedure

By Victor Barbosa | Last updated 7/27/22

David Bakhtiari is entering his 10th NFL season this fall, all of which have been spent with the Green Bay Packers. The former fourth-round draft pick and the rest of the Packers organization is hoping that the 2022 campaign goes smoother than last year did for the offensive lineman.

Bakhtiari missed nearly all of the 2021 season due to a torn ACL he suffered in December 2020, before returning for Week 17 against the Detroit Lions. Bakhtiari was made inactive for Green Bay's lone playoff contest over the winter, an NFC Divisional Round game loss to the San Francisco 49ers.

The 30-year-old three-time Pro Bowler was placed on the Physically Unable to Perform list (PUP) on Saturday and newly extended general manager Brian Gutekunst addressed the situation on Wednesday.

Brian Gutekunst says David Bakhtiari had another procedure on his knee this offseason. Doesn’t want to put a timetable on his return and says he’s “cautiously optimistic” about his recovery. pic.twitter.com/n78s8dnzBX
— Matt Schneidman (@mattschneidman) July 27, 2022

The two-time First Team All-Pro isn't expected to play in the preseason — if at all. Behind Bakhtiari on the Packers depth chart at left tackle is third-year pro Yosh Nijman.

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