With Lamar Jackson back in action and the Baltimore Ravens remaining a threat in the AFC North, every game is now critical for the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Their 34-12 win over the Cincinnati Bengals moved them to 6-4, but the victory came with a concerning twist: quarterback Aaron Rodgers sustained a wrist injury that could influence the team’s next few matchups.
Rodgers delivered a strong first half, throwing for 116 yards and a touchdown while also scrambling for a first down.
Late in the second quarter, he injured his non-throwing left wrist after taking hits from two Bengals defensive linemen and instinctively bracing his fall with his hands. Fortunately, Mason Rudolph stepped in and kept the offense moving, showing poise in relief.
Former linebacker Emmanuel Acho voiced concern about the broader implications of Rodgers‘ injury.
“The Steelers present and the Steelers future is completely tanked off this Aaron Rodgers injury. I’m not depending on Aaron Rodgers in the future, because he’s already a 41-year-old man… and then in the present, the Baltimore Ravens are at .500 people… If I’m the Steelers, I’m both worried about today, and I’m worried about tomorrow with this injury,” Acho said on his podcast, Speakeasy.
Rodgers optimistic, Rudolph performs admirably in relief
Reports suggest the injury may be manageable. ESPN’s Adam Schefter described it as “a slight break,” while NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero noted the team’s belief that it is not long-term.
Ian Rapoport added that Rodgers is confident about returning soon.
“Aaron Rodgers has told people close to him that he will be back very soon. He has told more people close to him that he doesn’t want to miss a game. He is pushing to play in this game,” Rapoport said.
Rudolph‘s performance offered reassurance. Entering to a standing ovation at Acrisure Stadium, he led a 15-play field goal drive and a 12-play touchdown drive, completing 12 of 16 passes for 127 yards and a touchdown.
With the Chicago Bears coming up next-a team that ranks low in passing defense-Rudolph could continue to keep the offense productive if Rodgers needs time to recover.
The Steelers‘ playoff push remains on track, but the uncertainty surrounding Rodgers’ wrist will be a key storyline as the season progresses.
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