The Green Bay Packers will have to finish the regular season and go into the playoffs without left tackle David Bakhtiari, as he suffered a torn ACL in practice.
Star quarterback Aaron Rodgers was asked to reflect on what happened to Bakhtiari. Rob Demovsky of ESPN tweeted Rodgers' thoughts on the matter:
Aaron Rodgers said he was hoping for the best after LT David Bakhtiari (ACL) went down in practice but "didn't get it … You've got to move on but right now it's still a little sad and raw." Coach Matt LaFleur called it a freak, non-contact injury. https://t.co/RJJr2CSJX6
— Rob Demovsky (@RobDemovsky) January 1, 2021
Bakhtiari has been a reliable offensive lineman for Rodgers since coming into the NFL in 2013. He has made it to the Pro Bowl three times and was named First-Team All-Pro in 2018. Without Bakhtiari, Rodgers will be more susceptible to pressure in the pocket and may have to be more elusive to avoid getting sacked, especially against a player like Khalil Mack.
Also, no Bakhtiari means the running game may be affected. Aaron Jones, who has rushed for 1,062 yards and eight touchdowns this season, has been a stellar asset for Green Bay, with the help of Bakhtiari's blocking.
Jones was asked about whether Bakhtiari's injury will impact his decision in regards to his contract. This is what Jones had to say:
Good question by @PeteDougherty to Aaron Jones on whether Bakhtiari's injury gives him pause when it comes to his contract: "It’s nothing that I can control … hopefully everything works itself out."
Bakhtiari did a mega-extension in Nov. Jones hasn't been able to get a deal.
— Rob Demovsky (@RobDemovsky) January 1, 2021
The playoffs are approaching fast, and now the NFC North leaders will have to find a sub to protect Rodgers at all costs (there are options). The playoffs will bring the best out of the defenses the Packers play. In order for Rodgers to lead a strong offensive attack, along with an unstoppable running game led by Jones, the offensive line has to step up this postseason.
Green Bay is currently looking to secure the top seed in the NFC and a first-round bye. A win over the Bears would do just that, but they'll have to do it without a key player.
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