The status of Aaron Rodgers remains uncertain as the Pittsburgh Steelers prepare to face the Chicago Bears this Sunday at Soldier Field. Rodgers sustained a small fracture in his left wrist during the Steelers’ 34-12 victory over the Cincinnati Bengals on November 16, 2023. As of Wednesday morning, the team has not made a final decision regarding his participation in the game.
According to ESPN NFL insider Dan Graziano, the Steelers are choosing to wait until later in the week to assess Rodgers’ condition. Coach Mike Tomlin indicated that the team would explore options to brace or pad Rodgers’ non-throwing hand, which is crucial for his ability to take snaps, hand off the ball, and protect himself during play. The decision may not come until Friday or Saturday, with Rodgers pushing to play despite the risk of further injury.
In the event that Rodgers cannot play, Mason Rudolph will likely take the reins. Rudolph stepped in during the game against the Bengals, completing 12 of 16 passes for 127 yards and a touchdown, contributing to the Steelers’ record of 6-4. While Graziano reported that the Steelers have confidence in Rudolph’s ability to lead the team, the coaching staff is also preparing rookie Will Howard as a backup.
Every game is pivotal for the Steelers in their pursuit of the AFC North title, particularly as the Baltimore Ravens are on a four-game winning streak, bringing their record to 5-5. The Ravens will host the struggling New York Jets, who currently sit at 2-8, this Sunday.
The Steelers enter the matchup against the Bears as 2.5-point road underdogs, according to ESPN BET. The uncertainty surrounding Rodgers adds tension to an already critical game, as his history against the Bears has been impressive. In regular-season play, Rodgers boasts a record of 24-5 against Chicago, with 64 touchdowns and only 10 interceptions.
As the week progresses, fans and analysts alike will be closely monitoring the situation, eager to see if Rodgers will be able to add to his storied record against the Bears.
