Green Bay Packers left tackle, David Bakhtiari, played in the season opener on natural grass in Chicago but didn’t play on the artificial turf in Atlanta for Week 2. His older brother, Eric Bakhtiari, hinted on social media that David was protesting against playing on turf.
David Bakhtiari clarified that his brother’s social media post wasn’t the reason he didn’t play in Atlanta. He stated that he’s been dealing with an injury. Bakhtiari has been critical of playing on turf, especially after his friend Aaron Rodgers suffered an Achilles tendon injury on turf in the season opener.
David Bakhtiari: If I wasn’t going to play on turf, I’d probably make more of a ruckus. https://t.co/sJdWrWn27a
— ProFootballTalk (@ProFootballTalk) September 21, 2023
Bakhtiari wants to emphasize that he wouldn’t abandon his teammates to protest turf. He signed up to play and intends to do so when he’s physically ready. He’s been dealing with this injury and it’s been tough on him. He appreciates the support he’s received from General Manager Brian Gutekunst, who has been understanding about his situation.
As for when he’ll return, Bakhtiari isn’t certain if he’ll be ready to play this week or the following short week. Fortunately, both upcoming games are on natural grass at Lambeau Field, which he prefers over turf.
