What happened to Aaron Rodgers? Why he is not playing against Bengals, injury update, and return details

Aaron Rodgers, the Pittsburgh Steelers' quarterback, suffered an apparent left hand/wrist injury and is questionable to return against Cincinnati Bengals.

Updated on: Nov 17, 2025, 02:53:34 IST

By Vaishnavi Vaidyanathan

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Aaron Rodgers, the Pittsburgh Steelers' quarterback, suffered an apparent left hand/wrist injury during the first half of their Week 11 NFL game against the Cincinnati Bengals at Acrisure Stadium on Sunday. He is questionable to return.

PITTSBURGH, PENNSYLVANIA - NOVEMBER 16: Aaron Rodgers #8 of the Pittsburgh Steelers takes the field prior to a game against the Cincinnati Bengals at Acrisure Stadium on November 16, 2025 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Getty Images via AFP)

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What happened to Aaron Rodgers?

The injury happened late in the second quarter after Rodgers took a hard hit from multiple Bengals defenders during a sack or scramble. He grimaced in pain, held his left wrist, and appeared to have blood on his hand as he went to the locker room at halftime.

Backup quarterback Mason Rudolph took over on Pittsburgh’s first drive of the third quarter.

Coach Mike Tomlin said Rodgers was being evaluated and listed as questionable, while the team prepared Rudolph to finish the game. Rodgers remained sidelined to avoid further injury.

When asked about Rodgers’ chances of returning, Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin told CBS at halftime, "We're hopeful but we better get Mason Rudolph ready to go."

At halftime, the Steelers led 10‑6, thanks to an 11‑yard touchdown pass from Rodgers to running back Kenneth Gainwell on the opening drive.

Also Read: Josh Jacobs knee injury update: What happened and will the Packers RB return vs Giants?

Steelers QB depth chart

Aaron Rodgers

Mason Rudolph

Will Howard (emergency third QB)

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Vaishnavi Vaidyanathan
Vaishnavi Vaidyanathan leads the US Desk at Hindustan Times, where she writes, strategises coverage, and ensures quality across all beats. With eight years of experience covering US news for leading publications, she has reported extensively on politics, entertainment, and sports. Vaishnavi holds a graduate degree in English, Journalism, and Psychology, and completed her PG Diploma in Broadcast Journalism from the Manorama School of Communication, where she was awarded the prestigious Mammen Mappillai Award for Best Outgoing Student. She began her career at the International Business Times (US Edition), covering US breaking news, politics, and entertainment. She later joined Opoyi, reporting across all beats, including US sports and trending stories. Prior to Hindustan Times, she served as World Lead at Times Now News, covering comprehensive world news and events. Vaishnavi has expertise in politics, entertainment, and breaking news, and enjoys tackling stories across a wide range of topics. Beyond the newsroom, she is an avid traveller, a foodie who loves exploring new restaurants, and a pop culture enthusiast who enjoys watching latest shows and films. She also enjoys engaging in debates and discussions on Reddit.Read More

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