Aaron Rodgers returns to the Pittsburgh Steelers’ lineup today against the Buffalo Bills, but it’s easy to understand why he missed a game. Per NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, Rodgers’ injury is worse than initially led on.
“#Steelers QB Aaron Rodgers, who is set to start today, will do so despite several broken bones in his left wrist, sources say. Rodgers has at least 3 fractures, one of which is a more consequential break that can only happen with significant force. And he’s playing, regardless.”
#Steelers QB Aaron Rodgers, who is set to start today, will do so despite several broken bones in his left wrist, sources say.
Rodgers has at least 3 fractures, one of which is a more consequential break that can only happen with significant force. And he’s playing, regardless. pic.twitter.com/qc6LDl2QhS
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) November 30, 2025
Rodgers suffered the injury in the first half of Week 11’s game against the Cincinnati Bengals. The team has generally been tight-lipped about the exact nature of the injury, though Mike Tomlin noted it did not need surgery. Instead, Rodgers will wear a brace to offer further protection. The only good news here is the injury is to his non-throwing wrist. Had it been his right hand, he likely would’ve sat out multiple weeks.
Risk of re-injury has been the main reason why Rodgers has missed time. Tomlin told Fox’s Jay Glazer last week concern over the fracture becoming displaced was the driving reason why Rodgers sat out for fear of further damage that could cause Rodgers to miss the rest of the season. But the team evidently felt comfortable enough about him this week to play. Rodgers practiced in full Thursday and Friday with Tomlin giving him the green light following the team’s final practice.
Tomlin noted Rodgers has been pushing to play since getting hurt. He attempted to get back into the game against the Bengals but was held out with the team unsure of the severity of the injury. During his most recent Mike Tomlin Show, Tomlin told host Bob Pompeani Rodgers was itching to play last week against the Chicago Bears.
“He pressed big time in an effort to get back to us last week,” Tomlin said.
Rodgers was ultimately held out and made inactive, not even serving as the team’s emergency third-string quarterback. Mason Rudolph got the nod instead, throwing one touchdown and one interception in a loss.
