Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Chicago Bears due to a fractured left wrist. Despite his strong desire to play, team doctors and coaches are weighing the risks of further injury. The decision remains uncertain as the team assesses his functionality.
Aaron Rodgers suffered a fracture in his left wrist during last Sunday's game, leading to his questionable designation after limited practices on Thursday and Friday. He missed Wednesday's session but showed progress, gripping the ball with his left hand without visible discomfort while wearing a black brace. Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin described Rodgers' Friday effort as solid but emphasized the need for more evaluation over the weekend.
Rodgers, who turns 42 next month, is adamant about playing. NFL insider Tom Pelissero reported that if left to his own decision, Rodgers would start 100 percent against the Bears. 'The simplest of putting it is, if it’s up to Aaron Rodgers, he’s 100 percent starting on Sunday against the Bears,' Pelissero said on The Rich Eisen Show. However, doctors held him out last week due to risks, including potential further damage that could require surgery and sideline him for the season's stretch run.
Beat writer Mark Kaboly predicts a 95 percent chance Rodgers starts, suggesting the limited reps were strategic to maintain the questionable tag and keep Chicago guessing. 'He’s playing, no doubt,' Kaboly said on 93.7 The Fan. Rodgers holds a 24-5 career record against the Bears, though he has struggled recently against their defensive coordinator Dennis Allen.
Former Steelers player James Harrison expressed caution, arguing it's not smart for Rodgers to risk worsening the injury on his non-throwing hand. 'I don’t think it’s smart for him to actually play. I believe that we can beat this team as long as Mason Rudolph can go out there and be effective,' Harrison said on his podcast. The injury could limit snaps under center and handoffs, potentially altering the offensive game plan to shotgun formations. With key games ahead, including two against the Baltimore Ravens, protecting Rodgers is a priority, though his toughness pushes for participation.
