Key Takeaways:
– All-Pro LT, David Bakhtiari, could address Washington Commanders’ left tackle gap.
– Bakhtiari’s health status appears positive after a follow-up exam signals an on-time return for the 2024 season.
– Despite a string of injuries and knee surgeries leading to scarce game play, Bakhtiari still offers high pass-blocking skills.
– The Commanders’ reliance on unproven talent could be mitigated by inking Bakhtiari on a veteran’s minimum deal.
David Bakhtiari’s Potential to Fill Commanders’ Roster Gap
All-Pro left tackle David Bakhtiari may be instrumental in filling the gap in the Washington Commanders’ offensive line. Following a series of knee surgeries, Bakhtiari’s return to full health is a ray of hope for the Commanders. With positive news on his health recovery, Bryan Manning of Commanders Wire proposes that the team could leverage their cap space to draft Bakhtiari for the approaching season.
Concerns surrounding Bakhtiari’s Health Status
Given that Bakhtiari has played a sole 13 games over the past three seasons due to knee surgeries, the possibility of his signing has risk attached. Now at 32, the former Green Bay Packers’ starter has a history of troublesome injuries. However, recent reports reveal optimism concerning Bakhtiari’s recovery. According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, the two-time first-team All-Pro is set for a return on schedule in the 2024 season, as declared by Dr. Brian Cole during a follow-up exam.
Bakhtiari: A Significant Addition to the Commanders
Despite his prevalent health issues, Bakhtiari’s high market value and exceptional performance on the field should pique the interest of teams. A seasoned pro in his eleventh year of the sport, Bakhtiari has made to the Pro Bowl three times. Benefiting from his extensive tenure as the blindside guardian for Aaron Rodgers, Bakhtiari showed promising pass protection in the 2023 season’s opening week, as stated by Pro Football Focus.
The Commanders Can’t Sidestep LT Requirement
Washington Commanders’ General Manager Adam Peters and head coach Dan Quinn released former starter Charles Leno Jr. but have yet to announce a replacement for the 32-year-old. Despite the availability of competent free agents, including a two-time Super Bowl champion, the Commanders chose to rely instead on their third-round pick, Brandon Coleman. However, the Commanders are still missing a reliable player for the blindside.
Bakhtiari: An Affordable Solution
Exploring the options, the Commanders may allow Andrew Wylie, who performed poorly as a right tackle last season, to cover left. However, an even better option could be roping in a left tackle of Bakhtiari’s caliber on a veteran’s minimum contract. Despite small odds, Bakhtiari still stands as a useful addition to the Washington Commander’s line-up, given his proven expertise and potentially low market cost.