Packers vs. Cardinals inactives: Bakhtiari and Shields return for Divisional Round tilt

Following a three-game absence, left tackle David Bakhtiari finally returns to the field, making the Green Bay Packers' entire starting offensive line available for the first time since Dec. 3. On the other side of the ball, top cornerback Sam Shields rejoins the Green Bay secondary after missing four weeks with a concussion.

The last time the Packers faced the Arizona Cardinals, the line allowed nine sacks, eight with Aaron Rodgers under center. However, the Bakhtiari's ankle injury kept him out of that contest, forcing backup Don Barclay into blindside duty. While Arizona's pass rush remains a concern, the presence of the team's starting left tackle reduces the chances of another catastrophe.

Meanwhile, the defense gets a significant boost with Shields' return. While the cornerback sat out, rookies Damarious Randall and Quinten Rollins had to play a inordinate number of snaps against the opponents top receivers. Even undrafted free agent LaDarius Gunter saw action during that stretch. Though they performed admirably, Shields gives the Packers a much better chance of curtailing the Cardinals' passing attack.

The full inactive lists for both teams are located below:

Green Bay Packers

• QB Brett Hundley
• WR Davante Adams
• CB Robertson Daniel
• CB LaDarius Gunter
• RB John Crockett
• LB Andy Mulumba
• G Josh Walker

Arizona Cardinals

• QB Matt Barkley
• CB Corey White
• RB Kerwynn Williams
• LB Shaq Riddick
• DT Red Bryant
• OT D.J. Humphries
• NT Xavier Williams