Steelers Prepare for Bears with Rodgers‘ Status Uncertain, Warren Limited in Practice
PITTSBURGH, PA – November 27, 2023 – The Pittsburgh Steelers are navigating a crucial Week 12 matchup against the Chicago Bears with uncertainty surrounding quarterback Aaron Rodgers’ injury and a limited practice schedule for running back Jaylen Warren. Head Coach Mike Tomlin addressed the team’s preparation during a press conference Monday, emphasizing a focus on both Rodgers’ potential return and readiness for Mason Rudolph to lead the offense.
Rodgers sustained an injury, the specifics of which were not detailed in the report, and is working to be available this week. “He and I talked (Monday). He expressed that directly,” tomlin stated. ”I’m of the mindset of supporting that, while at the same time I got a healthy collective of guys as a team and as a unit to ready.”
The Steelers will center their initial practice work around Rudolph. “We’ll have a great week’s work (wednesday) centered around Mason Rudolph and what he does. And we’ll see where the week leads us, and we’ll take it day by day,” Tomlin explained.
Tomlin downplayed any significant shift in game-planning,noting the team has consistently incorporated Rudolph’s strengths into preparations throughout the season. “We’ve gone through 10 games catering it to Aaron and his talents and gaining certain traction there about the schematics. And all the while, we’ve been gaining some perspective about what’s best for Mason,” he saeid. “Each and every week he goes through things within the plan that are really cozy for him.”
Beyond Rodgers, the Steelers are also monitoring Warren’s ankle injury sustained against the Cincinnati Bengals. Tomlin indicated Warren’s participation in practice will be limited, but expressed optimism about his availability for Sunday’s game. “He was cleared to play [against the Bengals]. He was willing to play,” Tomlin said, explaining the decision to continue utilizing Kenneth Gainwell.”We just thought kenny was doing a good job. Those are decisions that we make in-game sometimes. It’s not totally up to the player’s will or the expert medical device. It’s about who gives us the best chance to win.”