Ex Packers player, who earned All-Pro honors twice, has admitted to struggling with insomnia after the Packers declined to offer him a new contract, while also expressing his desire to return to the team.

Green Bay, WI – July 26, 2025

The NFL offseason is a time of tough decisions, but for David Bakhtiari, the sting of rejection from the Green Bay Packers has left a lasting mark. The veteran left tackle, once a cornerstone of the team’s offensive line, opened up about his struggles after the Packers declined to re-sign him, leaving him grappling with uncertainty and a longing to return to Lambeau Field.

Bakhtiari, a five-time All-Pro, was released by the Packers in March 2024 after a series of injuries, including a torn ACL in 2020 and subsequent knee issues, limited him to just 13 games over four seasons. His one-year, $10.7 million contract in 2023 offered a chance to reclaim his elite status, but persistent injuries and a $21 million cap hit prompted Green Bay to move on, prioritizing younger talent like Rasheed Walker. “I poured my heart into this team,” Bakhtiari said. “I begged for one more shot to stay in Green Bay, but they said no. I haven’t slept right since.”

The 33-year-old, a University of Colorado product, logged only 131 snaps in his final season with the Packers, a far cry from his dominant years protecting Aaron Rodgers and Jordan Love. Despite his limited play, Bakhtiari’s leadership and technique remained invaluable, making the team’s decision bittersweet. “Driving away from Green Bay felt wrong,” he admitted. “This place is home. I’d do anything to come back.”

Now a free agent, Bakhtiari faces an uncertain future. His injury history has scared off potential suitors, leaving him without a team as training camps begin. The Packers, meanwhile, have shifted focus to a younger offensive line, with Zach Tom and Jordan Morgan anchoring the unit. Yet, Bakhtiari’s desire to return burns strong. “I know I can still play at an All-Pro level,” he insisted. “Green Bay will always be where I belong.”

For a player who defined Packers’ resilience, the sleepless nights reflect more than a lost contract—they signal a dream deferred. As the 2025 season looms, Bakhtiari’s hope for a second chance in Green Bay lingers, but the NFL’s harsh reality may force him to look elsewhere.

Stay tuned for updates from Green Bay!