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Ex Green Bay 5× Pro Bowl running back agrees to pay cut to return and help team overcome injury crisis

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Green Bay, October 1, 2025
 
For the second straight week, the Green Bay Packers faltered, settling for a dramatic 40-40 tie against the Dallas Cowboys in a Sunday Night Football thriller. Defensive lapses and special teams miscues kept Dallas in the game, but the glaring issue lies with the battered offensive line, prompting fans to clamor for a familiar face.
 
With guard Aaron Banks (groin) and right tackle Zach Tom (oblique) sidelined, the Packers’ line struggled. Banks, signed to a four-year, $77 million deal from the 49ers, and Tom, locked in with a four-year, $88 million extension, missed the game, leaving rookie Jordan Morgan exposed with penalties and poor run support.
 
Fans and media are now pleading for the return of five-time All-Pro left tackle David Bakhtiari. On X, Nathan Wade asked The Athletic’s Matt Schneidman, “Any chance we could bring Bakhtiari in for a workout? He has to be better than Jordan Morgan.” Schneidman replied, “Let’s ask David Bakhtiari,” hinting at the idea’s appeal.
 
Bakhtiari, sidelined since 2023 due to injuries, praised Packers’ wideout Romeo Doubs’ three-touchdown performance: “Romeo Doubs’ success is the fact that he is a Pros Pro. Very detailed and reliable… I’m a big fan of Rome’s game and character.” While not confirming a comeback, his words suggest he’s still tuned into Green Bay.
 
The makeshift line, with Darian Kinnard outperforming rookie Anthony Belton, underscored the need for veteran stability. Bakhtiari’s injury history makes a return unlikely, but his presence could bolster pass protection for Jordan Love as the 2-1-1 Packers enter their bye week.
 
Packers Nation is buzzing with hope that Bakhtiari could answer the call. With a tough schedule ahead, can the former star return to fortify Green Bay’s line, or will the team lean on its young talent to rebound?

Christian Watson Resumes Practice After ACL Recovery
Green Bay, October 7, 2025 Green Bay Packers fans received a major boost as star wide receiver Christian Watson returned to the practice field, marking his first session in nearly 300 days. The team opened his 21-day practice window, signaling a step toward rejoining the active roster after a torn ACL. Watson, a 2022 second-round pick, suffered the injury in Week 18 last season, landing on the physically unable to perform list for the start of 2025. His career stats—98 receptions, 1,653 yards, and 14 touchdowns in 38 games—highlight his big-play potential, despite missing 17 games due to injuries. With Jayden Reed sidelined by a collarbone injury and rookie Matthew Golden yet to dominate as a first-round pick, Watson’s return is critical. His 4.36-second speed offers a deep-threat dimension to Jordan Love’s offense, complementing Romeo Doubs’ breakout (13 catches, 179 yards, 4 TDs). The Packers, sitting at 3-1 during their bye week, boast a deep receiver corps with Dontayvion Wicks and Savion Williams. Watson’s comeback could elevate an already potent attack, filling the void left by Reed’s absence. Head coach Matt LaFleur expressed enthusiasm: “We’re thrilled to have Christian back in drills. His return is a big step.” The 21-day window allows Green Bay to assess his readiness for the 53-man roster. Watson’s recovery adds a dynamic weapon to a contending Packers squad. His ability to stretch the field could prove pivotal, strengthening Green Bay’s push for NFC supremacy