Packers: David Bakhtiari could return vs. Lions in Week 18

It’s been over a year since David Bakhtiari last played for the Green Bay Packers.

The long wait may come to an end this weekend against the Detroit Lions. The All-Pro left tackle could make his return in Week 18.

Bakhtiari is listed as questionable on the Packers’ injury report for this week, but it’s worth noting he was listed as a full participant at practice on Friday. That could be the biggest indication yet that his return is imminent.

While this game is meaningless for the Packers as they already have the number one seed in the NFC and home-field advantage, it could be valuable for Bakhtiari. After so much time out due to injury, getting reps on Sunday could almost be like a preseason game for him.

A chance to get some regular-season action in, build some confidence, and get ready for the games that matter the most, starting in two weeks for the divisional round.

Hopefully, Bakhtiari will be one of many injured Packers returning in time for the playoffs.

Another starter along the offensive line, center Josh Myers, looks set to return this week against the Lions, according to head coach Matt LaFleur. Again, this game will provide Myers an opportunity to get valuable reps ahead of the playoffs, almost like a preseason game.

The hope is that Jaire Alexander, Za’Darius Smith, and Randall Cobb will be able to return at some point.

The Packers secured the NFC’s number one seed with a game to spare, and did so without many star players throughout the season. If they can get a few of them back for the playoffs, they will be a tough team to beat throughout January.

We’ll find out on Sunday whether Bakhtiari makes his long-awaited return, but it sure seems it won’t be long until he’s back out there.