Aaron Rodgers will not participate in the Pittsburgh Steelers’ preseason matchup against the Green Bay Packers on Thursday night. The 42-year-old quarterback is sidelined in street clothes, while Mason Rudolph is slated to start in his place. Will Howard is expected to take over during the first half, with rookie Drew Allar anticipated to play after halftime.
Despite his absence, Rodgers has left the door open for potential playing time later in the preseason, specifically mentioning a possible appearance against the New York Jets on August 21. His decision to sit out stems from his belief that preseason snaps hold limited value for an experienced quarterback like himself.
Result
His next possible game could come on August 21, when the Steelers are scheduled to face the New York Jets, another of his former teams.
Speaking to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, he said he is not against playing but does not see it as essential. “It’s preseason,” Rodgers said. He said teams now show less of their plans during these games, making the action less useful for established players.
“It’s not real football. So if I do, great. If not, great. Rodgers is still expected to appear during the preseason.
Rodgers has questioned how much preseason football can teach veteran players before the regular season begins. Rodgers also explained why he thinks preseason games are different from earlier in his career.
Individual and team impact
The matchup is expected to be Rodgers’ final meeting with Green Bay, the team that selected him in the 2005 NFL Draft. Meanwhile, Jordan Love is starting for the Packers against Pittsburgh.
