The Cleveland Browns’ offensive line has suffered many injuries in the early rounds of the preseason. Center Luke Wypler is sidelined for the season, Jack Conklin and Jedrick Wills have yet to practice, and three offensive lineman departed a preseason game against the Minnesota Vikings on August 17.
With free agents still on the market, the Browns may consider signing an offensive lineman as a precaution. Barry Shuck of SB Nation suggested three offensive tackles the Browns might investigate, including former Green Bay Packers standout David Bakhtiari.
“He spent 11 years with the same team, the Green Bay Packers, and established the left tackle position with meanness and dedication. He has made 131 NFL starts, won three Pro Bowls, and was voted First Team All-Pro twice and Second Team All-Pro three times. Extremely experienced, too. He’s ready to use right away.
“Bahktiari was placed on injured reserve on September 28, 2023 due to a knee injury. In October, it was revealed that he will miss the full season. Green Bay cut him in the spring before training camp this year because they were looking for younger players on their offensive line,” Shuck wrote on August 18. “He still has explosiveness in his game and is in perfect health. Bakhtiari’s play has always had superb feet with violent, choppy footwork. He moves with discipline and urgency, is a locker room leader, and a fan favorite.”
Bakhtiari’s Injury History Is Worrisome
With so many injuries, the Cleveland Browns must be cautious about who they sign. Bringing in Bakhtiari, who has only appeared in 13 games over the last three seasons, is something they should consider.
Replacing injured athletes with someone who is prone to injury won’t help if he gets hurt again. However, according to Ian Rapoport of NFL Network, Bakhtiari is fit and set to play in 2024.
“Former #Packers All-Pro LT David Bakhtiari, who is recovering from knee surgeries, had a positive follow-up exam with expert Dr. Brian Cole, and Cole proclaimed him on schedule for a 2024 season return,” Rapoport told X on May 21.
Bakhtiari has undergone five surgeries on his knee. When reporters asked why he would want to have another operation after being injured in 2023, Bakhtiari emphasized his work ethic.
“Because I’m different,” Bakhtiari stated, according to Wes Hodkiewicz, the Packers’ senior writer. “My work ethic is exceptional. I’m determined to tell my own story and refuse to let others write it.
“I’m just taking control of what I need to do. When I look back, do I want to look at the guy who was harmed and say, “Ah, that’s enough?” If it isn’t me, the future, older me will (tick) off the younger me.”
If Healthy, Bakhtiari Could Help
Bakhtiari’s health is a major if at this point in his career, regardless of what his doctors say. However, he is a two-time All-Pro and three-time Pro Bowler who has contributed significantly to the Green Bay Packers’ success over the last decade.
The Cleveland Browns would need to conduct their due research, but if they are confident in his health, he may be a viable alternative at a low cost.
If he even does half of what he did with the Packers, it’d be a great signing.
