David Bakhtiari sure knows how to grab headlines. Don’t believe us? Well, one trip to his social media timeline might help. From subtly shading Shedeur Sanders to mocking his former teammate Aaron Rodgers, it’s like the semi-retired (stress on semi) offensive tackle has discovered a newfound love for speaking out his mind. However, this time, the 33-year-old showed that despite not wearing the green and gold anymore, his heart still bleeds Packers…

While the NFL world speculates on where Bakhtiari might land next—or whether he’ll hang up his cleats altogether amidst battling a long-drawn knee injury battle—he reminded fans that some bonds outlast team changes and injury setbacks. And the way he did that? By showing love to a forgotten star.

It all started on April 21 when Sleepers Packers posted a draft-day flashback about the team’s 2013 selection of Alabama bruiser Eddie Lacy. Captioned, “Back with another #PackersDraft Flashback: in 2013, the Packers had the 55th overall pick in the draft. They traded down with the 49ers to get the 61st pick. When they got to 61, the best running back of the draft was on the board. That’s when they drafted Alabama RB Eddie Lacy”, the video showed Pro Football Hall of Famer Dave Robinson announcing the retired running back’s name to hoot of cheers and two Packers’ team members celebrating loudly. 

So, as expected, Bakhtiari, was never one to scroll in silence either. Like a true teammate, he tweeted with high praise: “I don’t think ppl understand truly how good @Lil_Eazy_Ana_42 was. Dude low-key had one of the nicest spin moves for a man of that size and power.” For a guy often in the headlines for injury updates or cap space speculation, this quiet moment of respect stood out. 

Eddie Lacy, once viewed as a future franchise RB before injuries derailed his career, rarely gets his flowers. Affectionately known as ‘Circle Button’ among his Alabama Crimson Tide teammates, the player won three BCS National Championships back in the day, and finished his glorious college career with 2,402 rushing yards, and 30 touchdowns, in three seasons. In his first season with the Packers, Lacy stayed true to his talent, and went on to finish the 2013 season with a career-high 1,178 yards, and 11 touchdowns. However, by the end of the 2015 season, it was clear that something was wrong—the running back finished with a dismal 758 yards, and three touchdowns.

At the time, coach Mike McCarthy also talked about the same, directing some pointed remarks toward his player. “He’s got a lot of work to do. His offseason last year was not good enough, and he never recovered from it. He cannot play at the weight he played at this year.” Unfortunately, Lacy never recovered from that. By 2017, just five seasons after getting draft, the player had to ultimately retire (he was a Seattle Seahawks player at the time).  

Yet, the throwback tribute wasn’t just about respect—it gave fans a peek into how Bakhtiari’s still deeply connected to his roots. Speaking of which: Despite battling knee injuries in recent seasons, reports indicate that Bakhtiari is on schedule to return for the 2025 season. NFL Media’s Ian Rapoport noted that the player had a positive follow-up exam with Dr. Brian Cole, suggesting a potential comeback. But his tribute has sparked speculation about his future in the league.

While fans digested his Eddie Lacy praise, NFL insiders were also digesting Bakhtiari’s updated stance on a return. 

David Bakhtiari clears the air—is retirement near?

While Bakhtiari hasn’t officially announced his retirement, these developments indicate that Bakhtiari is considering his options and may be preparing for a return to the NFL. And it landed at a time when questions about his future have been swirling louder than ever. In a recent interview via Sports Illustrated, the All-Pro lineman finally cleared the air, saying: “I do want to play. I want to win. I want to be on a contender.” With that, Bakhtiari shut down retirement rumors and made it known—he’s not done yet. He just wants the right situation.

A source close to the player told SI that he’s open to joining a contender like Kansas City, and he’s not rushing it. That aligns with his own words: “It’s about health and fit. If I’m good, I know I can help a team win.” Even though the Packers moved on, Bakhtiari hasn’t emotionally cut ties. That repost felt like a farewell letter wrapped in a highlight clip. There’s real emotion in his posts—nostalgia, loyalty, pride. It’s what makes him beloved in Wisconsin and respected league-wide. 

And for fans watching closely, the timing of his tribute didn’t feel like a coincidence. With the 2025 NFL Draft looming, and teams looking for experienced anchors, Bakhtiari’s subtle re-emergence on social media might just be his way of saying — “I’m still here. Just waiting for the right call.” And if anyone thought he was fading out of the spotlight? Think again. He’s been mentioned alongside possible O-line targets for several contenders, including Patrick Mahomes’ Chiefs, according to SI’s Colorado Football Report. 

One thing’s clear: Bakhtiari’s not chasing a contract—he’s chasing a legacy finish. So, is this just a respectful nod to a former teammate, or is David Bakhtiari quietly laying the groundwork for his own comeback arc? With his health reportedly trending up and the league full of contenders in need of veteran leadership on the line, the timing feels too perfect to ignore. Could we see No. 69 back on the field one more time — this time chasing not just blocks, but the ending he deserves?