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Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin told reporters he is optimistic quarterback Aaron Rodgers returns in Week 13 versus the Buffalo Bills.
The Pittsburgh Steelers didn’t have future Hall of Fame quarterback Aaron Rodgers behind center in Week 12. But Tuesday, head coach Mike Tomlin sounded confident that Rodgers’s absence will only last one game.
Tomlin detailed the week’s plan with the quarterbacks in the early portion of his weekly press conference.
“Aaron, obviously, worked his tail off to get to us last week. But as I mentioned over the course of the weekend, it was the prudent and appropriate decision,” Tomlin told reporters. “We’ll start this week with great optimism although we will certainly limit him at the early portions of the week, provide opportunities for the other quarterbacks while preserving him.
“But again, we’re comfortable with the general trajectory.
“I’ll keep you updated, and his level of participation and the quality of his participation over the course of the week will be the greatest indicator.”
Without Rodgers in Week 12 versus the Chicago Bears, the Steelers offense scored 21 points. Backup Mason Rudolph completed 24 of 31 passes but for only 171 yards. Rudolph had a touchdown but two turnovers — an interception and lost fumble.
Rudolph didn’t have a completion of at least 20 yards in the contest. He averaged 5.5 yards per attempt.
Rodgers has posted a 6-4 record as Pittsburgh’s starter this season. He has completed 66.4% of his passes for 6.8 yards per attempt. Rodgers also has 19 touchdowns versus seven interceptions.
Dave Holcomb is a sports reporter covering the NFL and MLB for Heavy.com, with a focus on the Pittsburgh Steelers, Philadelphia Eagles and Detroit Lions. Originally from Pittsburgh, Holcomb has covered college and professional sports for outlets including FanSided, Rotowire and Yardbarker. More about Dave Holcomb
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