Steelers' Aaron Rodgers: Have to be able to protect self to play - ESPN

PITTSBURGH — Though he was sidelined Wednesday with a fracture in his left wrist sustained against the Cincinnati Bengals, Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers said that he's going to try to return to practice Thursday.

«It feels better than it did Sunday, that's for sure,» Rodgers said Wednesday afternoon. "… Was thankful to get today to work with [head athletic trainer] Gabe [Amponsah] and just focus on rehab for today. Trying to get back on the field tomorrow and see what I can do."

The timeline, though, to determine his status for the Steelers' Week 12 game in Chicago isn't as clear. To play against the Chicago Bears, Rodgers said, he has to be able to «protect» himself.

«It's a safety thing,» Rodgers said, shooting down the notion that his ability to play would come down to pain management.

Asked if clarity on his availability could come all the way down to a pregame decision, Rodgers deferred to Steelers coach Mike Tomlin, who said in his news conference a day earlier that Friday would be a significant day in the process.

«I'm going to leave that up to Mr. Coach Tomlin,» Rodgers said.

Rodgers also demurred when asked if he had extra incentive to play Sunday given his history with the Bears.

«There's incentive for every opponent, but I have enjoyed many a Sunday and Monday and Thursdays in that city,» said Rodgers, who owns a 24-5 record against the Bears in the regular season. «It's a great sports town, phenomenal sports fans and great place to play.»

Asked if he embraced being the villain in the rivalry with the Bears, Rodgers smirked and added, «I'd rather not be, I mean I'm not in Green Bay anymore. I feel like we can let bygones be bygones. Maybe I can, I guess.

»it's a great rivalry.… When I first got