Packers Free Agent Betrays Green Bay for Contract with Lions

May 1, 2025

GREEN BAY, Wis. – Former Green Bay Packers offensive tackle David Bakhtiari has stunned fans, signing a one-year, $5 million deal with NFC North rival Detroit Lions, sources told ESPN Sunday. The five-time All-Pro’s defection leaves Titletown reeling.

Bakhtiari, 33, was released by Green Bay in March 2024 after 11 seasons, plagued by knee injuries. His 131 starts and two All-Pro honors cemented his legacy, but a $40 million cap hit prompted his exit (NFL.com).

The Packers, fresh off an 11-6 wild-card loss, saw Bakhtiari’s departure as inevitable. “David’s a legend,” GM Brian Gutekunst said. His signing with Detroit, however, sparked outrage, as he joins Jared Goff’s protection unit (Packers Wire).

Detroit, 11-1 in 2024, bolsters its line with Bakhtiari’s experience. “He’s a warrior,” coach Dan Campbell said. His 80.2 PFF pass-blocking grade in 2022, despite limited play, fits Ben Johnson’s scheme, backing up Taylor Decker (The Athletic).

Bakhtiari’s $5 million contract, with $3 million guaranteed, leverages the Lions’ $32 million cap space. “I’m chasing a ring,” he told reporters. His injury history—13 games since 2021—raises risks, but Detroit bets on his pedigree (Spotrac).

Fans erupted on X. “Bakhtiari to the Lions? Betrayal!” one post fumed. The move stings as Green Bay faces Detroit twice in 2025. Bakhtiari’s knowledge of Matt LaFleur’s system could tilt the rivalry (Pro Football Reference).

Green Bay’s line, with Rasheed Walker and draft pick Anthony Belton, held firm in 2024. Josh Jacobs’ 1,329 yards masked the loss, but Bakhtiari’s departure to a rival reignites fan frustration, echoing Aaron Jones’ Vikings move (ESPN).

As OTAs loom, Bakhtiari’s signing intensifies the NFC North battle. Can the ex-Packer fortify Detroit’s line and haunt Green Bay, or will injuries derail his comeback? With Jordan Love’s 3,947 yards, the Packers aim to prove they’ve moved on in 2025.