Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers may play against the Chicago Bears on Sunday despite fracturing his left wrist in last weekend's victory over the Cincinnati Bengals. Coach Mike Tomlin said Tuesday that there is a chance the 41-year-old will feature, depending on how he adjusts to a protective brace.
Rodgers injured his non-throwing wrist late in the first half of the 32-14 win. He wanted to return but remained in the locker room for assessment while Mason Rudolph helped secure the result. Tomlin confirmed Rodgers will not require surgery and will not practise on Wednesday, with his availability resting on the brace's impact on his functionality.
The four-time MVP has a storied history with the Bears, boasting an 11-1 record as a starter at Soldier Field. Tomlin dismissed suggestions that this dominance would influence the decision, stating: 'Aaron always wants to play. Opponent has nothing to do with it.' Rudolph, who completed 12 of 16 passes for 127 yards and a touchdown against the Bengals, will start if Rodgers is ruled out.
Other injury concerns include outside linebacker Alex Highsmith (pectoral), cornerback Darius Slay (concussion) and running back Jaylen Warren (ankle). Kenny Gainwell amassed 105 total yards and two receiving touchdowns in Warren's absence and is expected to see extended playing time. The Steelers, 6-4, face a Bears side that leads the NFL in takeaways and ranks second in third-down efficiency.
