The Green Bay Packers turned heads and got fans excited in 2025 when they signed defensive back Nate Hobbs to a four-year, $48 million contract. A year later, they decided to move on from Hobbs.
It is a significant move by Green Bay, which will still be feeling the financial impact of that commitment to Hobbs until 2027.
Hobbs’ deal with Green Bay came with a $16 million signing bonus, $12 million of which would come from the Packers’ pocket. Moreover, as a post-June 1st cut, Hobbs’ release means that Green Bay will have a dead cap of $4 million from the fallout in the 2026 season and $8 million more counting against the cap in the 2027 campaign.
Injuries prevented the 26-year-old Hobbs from fully contributing to Green Bay, having played only 11 games with five starts and collecting only two passes defended and 27 combined tackles.
Meanwhile, former Green Bay offensive lineman David Bakhtiari appeared to take a subtle shot at Hobbs with his reaction to the team’s “Thank you” message for Hobbs.
“For….???” Bakhtiari asked, rhetorically.
For….??? https://t.co/mf9qm09hkE
— David Bakhtiari (@DavidBakhtiari) March 12, 2026
Bakhtiari gets backlash after his comment on Hobbs
The three-time Pro Bowler Bakhtiari’s post didn’t quite land to a lot of fans, with many pointing out to his injury history.
“David Bakhtiari of all people ragging on a guy who couldn’t stay healthy,” said a fan on X.
Another one said: “Wow, this from a dude with a bum knee for 3 years that got a cool $100 million in his last contract 🤦🏻♂️”
From a commenter: “David, we could have said the exact same of you and your last 3 seasons.”
“Damn Dave, out of everyone who’s worn the green and gold, you are not the one who should be commenting on this one 🥀,” a social media user posted.
Via a different commenter: “I wrote the same thing on the Bakhtiari farewell post”
Said another: “Pot. Calling kettle.”
Bakhtiari was let go by Green Bay in 2024 after playing for 11 seasons with the team. His last few years with the team were largely defined by health issues, including surgeries and an appendectomy.
Oct 19, 2025; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Green Bay Packers head coach Matt LaFleur with cornerback Nate Hobbs (21) against the Arizona Cardinals at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
For More Great Wisconsin Sports Content
Follow me on Twitter at@theotherRobin19 and follow us@WiSportsHeroics for more great content. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in Wisconsin sports,click here!