Aaron Rodgers Return Timeline: Will the Steelers QB Play in Week 13?

Aaron Rodgers’ return timeline is at the center of Pittsburgh’s Week 13 storyline. The veteran quarterback missed the Steelers’ 31-28 loss to the Bears due to a small fracture in his non-throwing wrist. His status for the upcoming matchup against the Bills remains the team’s biggest question.

Coach Mike Tomlin offered a cautious but positive update. He said the team will “start this week with great optimism” about Rodgers’ ability to practice and possibly return. Still, the Steelers will monitor his workload and participation closely before making any final decision.

Latest Injury Update on Aaron Rodgers’ Return Timeline

Rodgers suffered a minor fracture in his left wrist during Week 11. The injury was considered manageable, and he made a strong effort to be available for Week 12. Tomlin said Rodgers “worked his tail off” trying to return, but the team felt sitting him was the prudent choice. His early-week activity appears limited, but the internal expectation is that he will trend toward active status if he responds well to treatment.

Tomlin reiterated that Rodgers’ practice quality will determine everything. If Rodgers shows functional mobility, comfort taking snaps, and no setback in pain or swelling, he has a realistic shot to play. The team will evaluate day by day. Pittsburgh also wants to ensure Rodgers avoids long-term risk because the team enters a critical stretch of AFC games.

The Steelers’ depth chart offers stability if Rodgers is delayed another week. Mason Rudolph delivered an efficient performance against Chicago, completing 24 of 31 passes with a touchdown and an interception. Rookie Will Howard was active as the backup for the first time this season. The Steelers also have Skylar Thompson on IR as an additional depth option. This structure allows Pittsburgh to be careful with Rodgers without disrupting game prep.

National outlets such as AP and Reuters have noted the Steelers’ careful approach with injured quarterbacks in 2025. Teams across the league are avoiding aggressive returns for veteran players with wrist or hand fractures. That context suggests Pittsburgh will stay conservative until Rodgers proves he is fully functional.

What This Means for Pittsburgh’s Offense

If Rodgers plays, the Steelers regain their most experienced playmaker for a pivotal AFC showdown. His leadership, timing, and pre-snap control shift the entire structure of their offense. Even at 41, Rodgers remains one of the league’s most efficient rhythm passers.

If he sits again, Pittsburgh likely leans on a balanced plan with Rudolph. The game plan would prioritize quick throws, controlled tempo, and a greater emphasis on the run game. This approach kept the Steelers competitive in Week 12, and it gives the coaching staff a baseline they trust.

For now, Rodgers’ return timeline remains day by day. The Steelers are optimistic, but the final call will depend entirely on how he practices through the week. Fans should expect updates as Pittsburgh progresses toward Sunday’s matchup with Buffalo.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Is Aaron Rodgers expected to return in Week 13?

The team is optimistic but has not confirmed. His practice participation will determine availability.

Q2: What is Aaron Rodgers’ current injury status?

He has a small fracture in his non-throwing left wrist. The injury is improving with treatment.

Q3: Who will start if Rodgers cannot play?

Mason Rudolph would start again. Will Howard would serve as the backup.

Q4: How does Rodgers’ return affect Pittsburgh’s offense?

It increases flexibility and veteran command. The team can lean more on deep reads and rhythm passing.

Q5: When will the Steelers make a final decision?

They will decide later in the week after evaluating Rodgers’ practice workload.