The Packers might try and replace David Bakhtiari next season
The Green Bay Packers offense could look different in 2023. First and foremost, the Packers will need to decide what to do at quarterback next season. After that, there will be turnover at wide receiver/tight end positions and on the offensive line. This week, general manager Brian Gutekunst talked about having a serious conversation about offensive tackle David Bakhtiari’s future this offseason.
The All-Pro lineman would be hard to replace. However, the expensive pass protector has struggled to completely rehab from his ACL injury that required three surgeries. By moving on from Bakhtiari, the Packers could salvage some much-needed cap space(nearly $6 million next season).
The Packers could be thinking OT in round one
One NFL writer has an offensive tackle in mind for the Packers next season. One should remember that Bakhtiari isn’t the only OT the Packers need to consider next season. Elgton Jenkins will be a pricey free agent.
Alex Ballentine with Bleacher Report wrote about three players the Packers would keep an eye on during the bowl season. Ballentine mentioned offensive tackle Paris Johnson Jr. out of Ohio State would be a good fit for the Packers:
“The Packers are an organization that has done a tremendous job building offensive line depth. Over the last two seasons, they’ve been forced to play multiple combinations up front because of injuries.
They’ve still managed to have good protection. They have the sixth-lowest pressure percentage allowed this season. They are clearing lanes in the run game, too. They average more than three yards before contact.
Building that kind of offensive line requires continued investment. Using their first-round pick on a player like Paris Johnson Jr. would certainly qualify. Johnson has the versatility the Packers seem to prioritize on the offensive line.”
This could be a massive move for the future of the Packers’ offense. No matter who will be under center in a few years, the Packers need a stable offensive line to keep the offense scoring. Johnson would be an addition that can help the Packers with their other promising young offensive lineman like Zach Tom.
