Packers sign LT David Bakhtiari to contract extension
MILWAUKEE (AP) - Packers left tackle David Bakhtiari has signed a contract extension to stay in Green Bay, and a person familiar with the talks said it is a four-year deal worth up to $51.67 million.
The person spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity on Tuesday because details of the extension have not been announced.
General manager Ted Thompson announced the signing on Tuesday without releasing terms. NFL.com first reported the extension for the lineman who protects quarterback Aaron Rodgers' blind side.
Bakhtiari has been a starter up front since his rookie season after being drafted in the fourth round in 2013 out of Colorado.
The signing comes less than two weeks after the Packers cut veteran left guard Josh Sitton , who signed with Chicago. Sitton was entering the last year of a five-year, $33.75 million extension signed after the 2011 season.
In announcing Sitton's release on Sept. 3, Thompson said that the decision wasn't easy but "done with a focus on what is best for the team and the growth of the offensive line."
The 2016 season was the final year of Bakhtiari's rookie deal.
The Packers also have financial decisions to make up front with right guard T.J. Lang and center JC Tretter after this season. Tretter took over as the starter in training camp following a hamstring injury to Corey Linsley.
Lane Taylor replaced Sitton at left guard.
The revamped line played relatively well in the season-opening, 27-23 win over Jacksonville. A Week 2 matchup against the rival Vikings in Minnesota should provide a tougher test.
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This version corrects Lang's position to right guard.
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