Key Takeaways:
– The Dallas Cowboys may benefit from signing former Pro Bowler, David Bakhtiari
– Despite injury and age, Bakhtiari remains one of the best tackles in the game
– Dallas Cowboys lack ideal and experienced options at the left tackle position
The Dallas Cowboys, one of NFL’s prominent teams, are recommended to take an interest in signing the former Pro Bowler and left tackle of the Green Bay Packers, David Bakhtiari. This proposition comes from Reid Hanson, a writer for USA Today Cowboys Wire, who believes that the Cowboys would have much to benefit from Bakhtiari’s experience in the absence of left tackle, Tyron Smith, who recently signed up with New York Jets.
Bakhtiari’s Value to Dallas Cowboys
Bakhtiari used to be one of the most proficient tackles in the NFL until health issues slowed him down. Aged 32 now, his performance in previous NFL seasons exhibits his potential when healthy. Despite being restricted to only two full games spanning 2021 and 2023, his record in the few games he played has been impressive.
Playing just 13 games in the past three seasons, Bakhtiari has maintained an exceptional record. He achieved an 87.8 pass-blocking grade and a 79.8 offensive grade in 2022, ranking fifth and twelfth, respectively, among all players in his position. Moreover, before his knee injury in 2020, he notched up a 91.6 pass-blocking grade and a 91.8 offensive grade, leading all tackles that season.
Shuffling the Line May Not be Ideal
With the projected starter at left tackle being first-round draft pick Tyler Guyton, a rookie, and others in the position like Matt Waletzko and Asim Richards having no experience in starting a game, the Cowboys are in dire need of experienced players. Although moving third-year guard Tyler Smith could be a possibility, Hanson suggests that it wouldn’t be an ideal solution.
If Guyton struggles in his rookie start season, they might need better options. In such a predicament, having an experienced player like Bakhtiari available would significantly help the team.
Bakhtiari’s Experience with Aaron Rodgers
With Bakhtiari’s block for four-time NFL MVP Aaron Rodgers during his entire 11-year career in Green Bay, the Cowboys could gain a significant edge. His expertise could greatly aid the 2023 MVP runner-up, Dak Prescott.
Regardless of Bakhtiari’s recent injury history and age, he still stands as one of the finest athletes in the game when he maintains a clean bill of health. For these reasons, the Cowboys could greatly benefit from his addition to the roster even though it’s unlikely they’ll consider this before training.
The Cowboys may be hopeful of their current roster with investments in rookies and the re-signing of right tackle, Terence Steele. Despite their options, the Cowboys might contemplating Bakhtiari’s signing in the face of injury complications or the falter of newcomer, Guyton, at left tackle.
In sum, Sanchez makes a compelling case for the Cowboys to seriously consider adding Bakhtiari to their ranks, given his wealth of experience and resilient performance prior to his injuries. Would Dallas heed his suggestion remains to be seen.
An athlete such as Bakhtiari brings both skill and experience to the table, which may make the difference between a successful and struggling season. His possible inclusion in Dallas Cowboys’ line-up could indeed shape the fortune of the team in the following season.