Ex-Packers Star Leaves Door Open for NFL Return — But Packers on His Mind

Green Bay, WI – July 23

He hasn’t played a full season in years. His knees have seen more rehab than turf. But despite whispers of retirement and a quiet offseason, one of the most beloved blockers in Packers history has a message: he’s not done — and he’s not moving on.

Rumors have swirled for months about his future. Some believe his body has finally called time. Others say he’s quietly waiting for the perfect situation. But as training camps begin and rosters solidify, one familiar name still lingers in limbo — and it turns out, he’s watching Green Bay just as closely as they once depended on him.

David Bakhtiari, the All-Pro left tackle and longtime protector of Aaron Rodgers, broke his silence this week with a revealing update that reignited hope among Cheeseheads.

“People think I’m done. The truth is, there are still teams calling. I’m just waiting for the Packers to pick up the phone in December,” Bakhtiari admitted with a grin that carried equal parts mischief and longing.

Over the course of 11 seasons in Green Bay (2013–2023), Bakhtiari became a cornerstone of the franchise, starting 131 games and earning five All-Pro selections. His dominance on the blindside was unmatched, especially during the team’s deep playoff runs in 2019 and 2020.

But the back half of his career was marred by devastating injuries — especially to his knee and ankle — that limited him to just 1 game in both 2021 and 2023. In 2020, he was elite in 12 starts before a torn ACL ended his year. Even when he returned, health setbacks kept him from ever fully reclaiming his form.

Despite those setbacks, Packers fans never stopped admiring #69 — not for highlight plays or gaudy stats, but for his warrior mentality and unshakable loyalty to the team. His release in 2024 was a financial decision, not an emotional one. And now, months later, his emotional connection clearly remains.

“I didn’t leave because I stopped loving football — or Green Bay. I just needed time,” he hinted in a follow-up post on X, sparking fan speculation of a late-season return.

Whether the Packers bite — and whether Bakhtiari’s body can still hold up — remains to be seen. But one thing is certain: if Lambeau ever needs a familiar protector come playoff time, the door won’t just be open. It’ll be guarded by one of the best to ever do it.