Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers’ (concussion) return to practice Thursday was the first strong sign that he’s on track to start Sunday. Coach Mike McCarthy said Wednesday that the next update on Rodgers’ status would come Thursday morning, so the fact that Rodgers was cleared to practice during the afternoon -- and receive the vast majority of first-team reps -- signals that he’s being counted on to lead Green Bay onto the field against the Dolphins.
ESPN’s John Clayton updated the situation further on Thursday evening’s edition of SportsCenter. According to Clayton, Rodgers’ chances are “very good” of starting the game, adding that Rodgers’ was a “much less significant injury” than the concussion suffered by Bears quarterback Jay Cutler against the Giants in Week Four. Cutler, of course, was deactivated for the subsequent week.
The Packers’ offense is in a state of flux. The team is preparing to be without dominant tight end Jermichael Finley for the duration of the regular season, while gearing up to increase wide receiver Greg Jennings’ role, according to the Green Bay Press-Gazette. They can ill afford to be without their leader heading into a tough matchup with Miami’s top-four pass defense.
Another update on Rodgers’ status will be available following Friday’s practice. Barring late-week setbacks, the Packers appear to be counting on him for Week Six.
