David Bakhtiari Injury Update: Packers LT returns to practice Friday to prep for week 2

And...exhale.

The Green Bay Packers’ practice on Thursday of week two put fans of the team into a minor panic. Left tackle David Bakhtiari missed practice with a back issue, resulting in much confusion and concern. After all, the team has no veteran backup behind him — second-year pro Alex Light is likely the next in line — and he is scheduled to face a talented group of pass-rushers on Sunday in the Vikings’ Everson Griffen and Danielle Hunter.

However, the concerns about a potential Bakhtiari absence on Sunday can be effectively put to rest. According to multiple beat writers who observed the start of Friday’s practice, Bakhtiari was in uniform and appeared to be participating fully.

One potential reason for Bakhtiari’s absence is that Thursday’s practice was conducted in full pads. Packers.com’s Wes Hodkiewicz noted that the team has held out linemen issues from padded practices in the past when back issues have been present, citing Josh Sitton as an example. It appears that this is the case for Bakhtiari as well.

There was some other good news on Friday as well. Cornerbacks Jaire Alexander and Kevin King were practicing as well, as both players were limited on Thursday. Also returning was rookie wideout Darrius Shepherd, who missed week one with a hamstring injury.

Stay tuned this afternoon, as APC will break down the full Friday injury report when it is announced.