Aaron Rodgers may practice on Thursday, Play against Cowboys

ByPhil Naegely|

Nov 23, 2014; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers (12) throws during the fourth quarter against the Minnesota Vikings at TCF Bank Stadium. The Packers defeated the Vikings 24-21. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports

Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers is expected to practice on Thursday ahead of Sunday’s game against the Dallas Cowboys

Aaron Rodgers has been dealing with a calf injury and reaggravated it against the Detroit Lions in Week 17. With a bye week during the Wild Card round, Rodgers and the rest of the Packers were able to rest. On Wednesday, he did not practice, but Head Coach Mike McCarthy is not concerned and expects the QB to play against the Dallas Cowboys.

As McCarthy told the media, “I plan on Aaron playing Sunday. Today’s schedule was for him to stay exclusively in the training room. We’ll see what tomorrow brings if he’ll be able to practice. It’s day-to-day but everything points in the direction of him playing.”

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Rodgers first day back at practice will be a good indication how he is feeling. It is most likely that Rodgers may be rusty in his first practice since the Week 17 game, but the bigger focus should be on his legs specifically the calf. A fluid running motion will be key to see just how far Rodgers has progressed.

If he’s still limping when chased out of the pocket, then the Packers may want to come up with a plan not involving him. However, that is unlikely ask McCarthy expects the star QB to play on Sunday against Dallas. At the same time, Green Bay needs to be cautious and make sure they don’t force Rodgers back from injury before he’s ready. Yes, the playoff game is important and Rodgers is a key part to their success and whether they win or lose.

However, it isn’t always about winning or losing. Head coaches and training staffs need to look out for the best interest of the players, further injury. Rushing Rodgers back too soon from his injury could end up causing him a more serious, career-ending injury.

Starting with Thursday all eyes will be on Rodgers and many questions will be asked.

His ability to practice on Thursday will be a good indication if he is ready to go or not for Sunday’s game at Lambeau. Don’t be surprised if he is tentative to run much on Thursday due to his calf injury. Expect Rodgers to rely on one of his best abilities, his arms, and work on the Packers offensive game plan as they look to remain undefeated at home this season.

“He’s totally into the game plan. He’s taken all the reps in the walk-throughs. Mentally, he’s right on top of it,” McCarthy added, via PackersNews.com.

While his physical ability to perform in his prime remain in limbo, his mental ability hasn’t been affected. This is a good first step as he makes a comeback from injury. Being mentally and physically healthy is important and sports and Rodgers needs both to be ready come Sunday against a stingy Cowboys defense.

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