Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers left Sunday’s Week 11 matchup against the Cincinnati Bengals after suffering a left-hand injury late in the first half. The team quickly listed him as questionable to return, raising concerns about his availability as Pittsburgh fights to stay competitive in the division race.
#HereWeGo Aaron Rodgers sustains a FOOSH injury (non-throwing arm). Possible re-aggravation, XR in the locker room to rule out fracture; if negative: wrist sprain with potential to return. pic.twitter.com/eQCySGB1gy
— MEDspiration (@MEDspirationNFP) November 16, 2025
What Happened to Aaron Rodgers?
Rodgers was injured during a drive that ended with a roughing-the-passer penalty on the Bengals. He was seen holding his wrist on the sideline before trainers escorted him to the locker room for further evaluation.
Before exiting, Rodgers completed 9 of 15 passes for 116 yards, including an 11-yard touchdown to Kenneth Gainwell.
A potentially significant injury for the #Steelers: QB Aaron Rodgers has a left hand injury and he is questionable to return. Mason Rudolph is the backup.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) November 16, 2025
Who Replaced Rodgers for the Steelers?
Head coach Mike Tomlin said at halftime that the team needed backup quarterback Mason Rudolph ready to step in, according to a CBS News report. Rudolph took over in the second half, relying on his previous starting experience to guide the Steelers’ offense.
Rudolph holds a 9-8-1 record as a starter and performed well against Cincinnati in 2023, throwing for 290 yards and two touchdowns in that matchup.
What This Injury Means for Pittsburgh
Rodgers, now 41, worked hard to come back after last season’s Achilles injury. His latest setback comes at a critical moment, as the Steelers remain in a tight AFC North race. Losing their veteran quarterback could significantly impact their playoff hopes.
The team has not yet announced the results of Rodgers’ medical tests. This remains a developing situation, and updates are expected as more information becomes available.
