by A Decade-Long Bond Between Quarterback and Tackle
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Aaron Rodgers and David Bakhtiari have developed one of the strongest friendships in the NFL over the past decade as teammates with the Green Bay Packers. While their careers have now taken them in different directions, the foundation they built together through ten seasons in Green Bay remains unshakeable. Rodgers and Bakhtiari’s bond was forged from their shared experiences on the field, mutual respect for one another’s talents, and ability to maintain a playful rapport even in the most high-pressure situations.
Strong Foundation Through Shared Experiences
Rodgers and Bakhtiari first joined the Packers roster together in the 2013 season, with Bakhtiari drafted by Green Bay in the fourth round of that year’s draft. While Rodgers was already an established veteran and Super Bowl champion by that point, Bakhtiari was just starting his NFL journey. Over the next ten seasons, they would experience all the highs and lows that come with competing in the league together. Whether it was celebrating playoff wins and division titles or dealing with disappointing playoff losses, Rodgers and Bakhtiari experienced it all side by side.
Beyond just the results on the field, they also shared the daily grind of practicing together, traveling for away games, working out in the offseason, and bonding off the field. For Bakhtiari, having Rodgers as his quarterback meant learning from one of the game’s all-time greats. Rodgers no doubt came to appreciate Bakhtiari’s protection and dependability on his blindside over the years. The countless shared experiences as teammates, especially for such an extended period of a decade, created an unbreakable bond between Rodgers and Bakhtiari.
Mutual Respect For Each Other’s Talents
While many players get along with their teammates, Rodgers and Bakhtiari’s relationship was elevated by the immense respect each had for the other’s talents. Bakhtiari established himself as one of the NFL’s premier left tackles during his time with the Packers, earning five Pro Bowl and All-Pro selections. He did an exceptional job of keeping Rodgers upright and giving him the time needed to succeed in Green Bay’s offense. Rodgers was always quick to acknowledge and appreciate Bakhtiari’s efforts to protect him, even joking that he owed Bakhtiari a nice Christmas gift every year.
Meanwhile, Bakhtiari held Rodgers in the highest regard as a quarterback. He saw firsthand in practice and games just how special Rodgers’ skills were, from his accuracy to ability to extend plays. Bakhtiari prioritized keeping Rodgers healthy so he could continue performing at an MVP level. Their relationship worked so well because each recognized what the other brought to the Packers and how important they were to one another’s success. The mutual admiration only added to their strong bond over the years.
Beyond The Field Friendship
While most of their connection came from team activities, Rodgers and Bakhtiari also developed a close friendship outside of football. In the offseason, they often trained together, whether it was working out, practicing routes, or conditioning. Pushing one another helped them stay at an elite level physically. Bakhtiari has said working out with Rodgers in California kept him motivated through tough sessions.
Their bond was also evident in more lighthearted moments away from the field. Rodgers and Bakhtiari frequently rode together to Packers practices in a custom golf cart, blasting music and cutting up along the way. These daily interactions showed their ability to maintain a playful camaraderie even amid the serious pressure of an NFL season. Rodgers has also spent time with Bakhtiari’s family and been part of celebrations for milestones in his life. The friendship grew far past just their time together competing for the Packers.
Loyal Support For One Another
When Rodgers’ future with Green Bay became uncertain heading into the 2022 offseason, Bakhtiari made his support for his friend clear. While many expected Bakhtiari to side with his long-time team, he instead emphasized wanting Rodgers’ happiness above all else. Bakhtiari said if Rodgers wanted to continue his career elsewhere, he would support that decision. Their bond meant more to Bakhtiari than simply keeping Rodgers in Green Bay.
Likewise, when Bakhtiari suffered a devastating knee injury that cost him almost two full seasons, Rodgers was one of his biggest supporters through the long recovery process. He checked in regularly to provide encouragement and ensure his friend knew he had his backing. Even after Rodgers’ departure from Green Bay, he’s continued showing Bakhtiari support, recently commenting positively on an Instagram photo. Their loyalty to one another remains strong.
Recent Developments
When Rodgers was traded to the Denver Broncos this past offseason, some speculation emerged that the Jets could try to acquire both Rodgers and Bakhtiari, reuniting the longtime friends. Bakhtiari even commented on one of Rodgers’ Instagram posts with multiple jet emojis. However, Packers GM Brian Gutekunst quickly shut down any possibility of dealing Bakhtiari for compensation.
While they haven’t been teammates since Rodgers left Green Bay, he and Bakhtiari remain close. They train together in the offseason, stay in regular contact, and Bakhtiari has been supportive of Rodgers’ fresh start in Denver. Even starting new chapters apart hasn’t impacted the bond they built up over a decade as Packers. Their friendship is a testament to what can develop from mutual respect on and off the field.
In summary, Aaron Rodgers and David Bakhtiari forged one of the NFL’s strongest friendships through ten seasons as Packers teammates. Their relationship was built on a foundation of shared experiences, an appreciation for each other’s talents, and a playful camaraderie that extended well beyond just football. Even as their careers have progressed in different directions, the bond they cultivated in Green Bay remains unbreakable. Rodgers and Bakhtiari stand as an example of how respect, loyalty and fun can grow an unshakeable bond between athletes.
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