Packers get great update on Aaron Rodgers just in time for playoffs

The Green Bay Packers got a positive injury update on Aaron Rodgers just before the start of the NFL Playoffs. No. 12 returned to practice.

Rodgers is adamant on playing this week, despite the Packers having already clinched the No. 1 overall seed in the NFC. The Packers face off against the Detroit Lions in a matchup they ought to win, considering the Lions have every incentive to lose in hopes of getting the No. 1 overall pick in next April’s draft.

No. 12 is intent on playing, especially given the Packers have a bye the following week. Not playing for what amounts to about three weeks of real time would be a lot for any player to handle, especially Rodgers.

"“This is the first game that my toe got through the game without any issues, no pregame painkiller shot, so I’m feeling good. I’m happy about it. There was definitely a time a few weeks ago when we started to project and think if we could get the one seed, it could be two-plus weeks of rest, but I’m going to play next week and I expect Davante (Adams) to play and our guys to play, so we’re looking forward to finishing off the season on a high note and then getting the bye,” Rodgers said."

Packers: Aaron Rodgers practices for first time since toe injury

Rodgers practice on Thursday for the first time since injuring his foot in October.

No. 12 appearing in practice is a major step, and he appears to be close to full recovery for the postseason. Rodgers has been complaining about his toe for weeks. The toe injury has limited Rodgers’ mobility, though the statistics don’t seem to suggest that. Rodgers’ MVP case hasn’t taken a hit whatsoever.