The situation around the Steelers QB Aaron Rodgers has shifted from doubtful to legitimately interesting. A few days ago, the expectation was that the veteran quarterback was likely headed for another week on the sideline with his recovery stuck in neutral. Now Mike Tomlin has opened the door. When a coach of his stature says the variables are stabilizing, it means the medical staff sees a path forming. This is not empty coach talk. It is a sign that Rodgers’ availability is no longer far-fetched.
The timing matters. Early in the week is when teams finalize medical timelines and practice expectations. A coach does not casually hint at optimism unless something has changed behind the scenes. Tomlin’s point that Rodgers will not need many physical practice reps suggests the issue is no longer his throwing or movement. It is strictly about ensuring he can protect himself before being cleared.
Mike Tomlin Gives Sharp Update on Aaron Rodgers’ Wrist Injury
Mike Tomlin offered a fresh update on Aaron Rodgers’ status on Nov. 18, saying, “We are going to get some clarity as we push through the week. The variables are stabilizing and making sure that he is safe and can protect himself,” per NFL reporter Alan Saunders.
He added that Rodgers would not require significant practice work in order to play, which makes medical clearance the primary hurdle. Aaron Rodgers suffered the injury during a routine pocket movement when he tried to reset his feet under pressure. As Rodgers planted and shifted, his lower body tightened awkwardly, causing an immediate pull that limited his mobility. It was a non-contact setback rather than the result of a hit from a defender.
But Tomlin also noted, “Aaron’s got a fracture in his wrist. It does not require surgery. Really, it’s about bracing it and securing it for his comfort and safety.” And that does not really mean that Rodgers will be playing next week.
Rodgers being a real option changes the entire week for both teams. Opposing coordinators must prepare for his command at the line of scrimmage, his ability to read defenses, and his precision in the short passing game. Preparing for a backup is very different, and that alone shifts the strategic balance.
There is also the psychological effect. A team sharpens up the moment the possibility of having a Hall of Fame-level quarterback becomes real. It elevates urgency and improves attention to detail throughout the building. Tomlin understands that even the hint of Rodgers returning steadies the locker room.
Most importantly, if Rodgers truly does not need a full practice load to function at a high level, which his career has proven many times, then the final barrier is medical clearance. When the staff is already describing the variables as stabilizing, it means this is not trending toward a shutdown. It is trending toward a real chance he steps on the field. But as Rodgers’ quick return is in danger, rookie quarterback Will Howard might get his chance to start for the Steelers in the upcoming week.
Mike Tomlin Keeps Will Howard’s Starting Chances Alive
Per an X page, Blitzburgh, “Tomlin did not rule out possible first team reps for Will Howard this week in practice.” Here’s a smooth, full-paragraph note on Will Howard and his readiness to step in, with his college production detailed.
Will Howard is now firmly in the conversation for playing time, and the coaching staff clearly wants him ready. With veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers’ status uncertain, Howard becomes the logical backup who could slide in without forcing a wholesale change to the offense.
He brings a pro-style background, good arm strength, and demonstrated accuracy in college. Coach Tomlin leaving the door open for Howard to take first-team reps this week suggests the team is looking ahead, not just as insurance but as a viable option if needed.
Howard’s college track record backs up that confidence. Over his career at Kansas State Wildcats and then Ohio State Buckeyes, he threw for a total of 9,796 yards and 83 touchdown passes while completing about 63.8 % of his attempts.
In his final season at Ohio State, he completed 73.0 % of his passes, threw 35 touchdowns against 10 interceptions. And he threw for 4,010 yards. Physically, he stands about 6-4 and 235 lbs, which is the ideal size for the position.
So, the bottom line is, if Rodgers is limited or needs a break, Howard is a credible option who can step in without causing massive disruption. The key question is, can he adapt quickly to the speed and complexity of the NFL offense and earn the coaches’ full trust? Let’s see.