Lamar Jackson and Aaron Rodgers Face Injury Challenges Ahead of Week 12

Lamar Jackson has missed practice again due to an ankle issue, adding to his list of injuries this season. According to the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, Jackson missed practice on Wednesday, marking the second consecutive week he has been sidelined. This comes after he already missed three games earlier this season due to a hamstring injury and was held out of practice last week because of a knee issue. Despite these challenges, Jackson managed to play in the Ravens' recent victory over the Cleveland Browns, throwing for 193 yards but struggling with mobility, running for only 10 yards on four attempts. Coach John Harbaugh acknowledged that Jackson's health is a week-to-week consideration, noting the physical nature of the sport and that not all players practice every Wednesday. The Ravens, currently at 5-5, have won four straight games, but with Jackson’s ankle injury now a concern, his ability to perform at his usual level remains in question. The offensive line has not been as strong as in previous years, which may also be affecting Jackson’s performance, with him getting sacked 23 times already this season, equal to his total from the entire previous season. Harbaugh expressed optimism that Jackson could still break out and run effectively despite the injury challenges.

On the other side, Aaron Rodgers of the Pittsburgh Steelers is grappling with a fracture in his left wrist, sustained during a game against the Cincinnati Bengals. As reported by ESPN, Rodgers did not practice Wednesday but expressed hope to return to practice soon, stating that he felt better than he did immediately after the injury. However, he emphasized that his ability to play in the upcoming game against the Bears hinges on safety rather than just pain management. Rodgers indicated that he needs to be able to protect himself on the field, and his playing status might not be confirmed until closer to game time. He mentioned that Friday would be a critical day for evaluation. Despite the injury, Rodgers remains focused on the rivalry with the Bears and expressed his desire to play. If he cannot go, backup Mason Rudolph stepped in during the previous game and performed admirably, completing 12 of 16 passes for 126 yards and a touchdown. Rudolph is well-prepared for the possibility of starting, given his past experiences as a backup quarterback. As the Steelers look ahead to Week 12, both Jackson and Rodgers' health will significantly impact their teams' playoff aspirations, making their situations critical to monitor leading up to their respective games this weekend.