Packers: David Bakhtiari gives encouraging injury update

Packers star left tackle David Bakhtiari provided an encouraging update on his recovery from injury.

While David Bakhtiari isn’t quite ready to return for the Green Bay Packers, he did provide an update on Wednesday.

General manager Brian Gutekunst told reporters that Bakhtiari had another knee procedure earlier this offseason but added that they are “cautiously optimistic”.

Bakhtiari also gave an update on his injury, saying that he feels “really good” and “normal”.

That is an encouraging update from the five-time All-Pro.

For now, it’s unclear when Bakhtiari will be cleared to return. He begins training camp on the physically unable to perform list but can be activated at any time.

Some other good news for the offensive line is Elgton Jenkins’ status.

Gutekunst noted that Jenkins is “ahead of schedule” in his recovery from a torn ACL. Again, there is no timetable for his return at this stage, but that’s encouraging news.

It won’t be surprising if Jenkins begins the regular season on the PUP list, which would keep him out for a minimum of four games.

Following today’s updates, it seems Bakhtiari and Jenkins are both on the right track. Having them both out there together as the starting tackles would be a huge boost for the Packers’ offensive line.

In the meantime, head coach Matt LaFleur must determine who joins Yosh Nijman as a starting tackle.

According to Cheesehead TV’s Aaron Nagler, Nijman lined up at left tackle with Royce Newman at right tackle during Wednesday’s practice.

It’s day one of training camp. The Packers won’t rush any of their injured players back. They will make sure they are fully healthy before clearing them to return.

But today’s updates on Bakhtiari and Jenkins’ injuries are encouraging. Hopefully they will both be able to return sooner rather than later.