The panic over the possibility of left tackle David Bakhtiari missing Sunday’s game against the Minnesota Vikings can subside, at least for now.
Bakhtiari returned to practice Friday after missing Thursday’s practice with a back injury, according to Mike Spofford of the team’s official site.
If he makes it through practice Friday without issue, he’ll be expected to play Sunday against the Vikings. That’s a good thing for the Packers, who’ll need the All-Pro left tackle to keep edge rushers Everson Griffen and Danielle Hunter away from Aaron Rodgers in the home opener.
It’s unclear how the Packers would replace Bakhtiari in the lineup if he couldn’t play. Right guard Billy Turner moving to left tackle appears to be the most likely scenario.
Coach Matt LaFleur will speak with the media after practice, although he’s been hesitant to provide injury information at press conferences.
The Packers will provide official injury designations later on Friday. It’s possible Bakhtiari could be removed from the list altogether. His presence at practice Friday suggests he’ll be listed as questionable, at worst.
