If you ask me, the display of ironman football has become a lost art.
The physicality, the grit, the rigidness that once defined the NFL are slowly fading. But every so often, a player reminds us of that old-school toughness. Aaron Rodgers is one of them. His determination to play in Week 12 is unmistakable, even as he hides a fractured left wrist from the cameras and questions. It’s noble, and it’s necessary. Pittsburgh is a better football team with No. 8 under center—there’s no debate there.
And let’s be honest: beating the Chicago Bears during what could be his farewell tour adds a meaningful layer of motivation.
A limited practice on Thursday sent a clear message to fans who wondered if the All-Pro would fight through the pain. Rodgers intends to give it a go. But while he was easing his way back into rhythm, Chicago quietly received a spark of their own: hope for a Jaylon Johnson return.
The two-time All-Pro cornerback has been sidelined longer than expected with a groin injury—a crushing blow for a Chicago defense already carrying heavy expectations. And yet, you wouldn’t know it. The Bears haven’t just survived without him; they’ve excelled.
They lead the NFL in average takeaways per game (2.2) and rank first in interceptions (15). Their secondary swarms, compress passing windows, and make even safe throws feel dangerous. For an already sore Rodgers, that’s concerning.
The Pittsburgh Steelers cannot afford unwarranted Aaron Rodgers mistakes against the Chicago Bears
Sure, I believe Arthur Smith will try to shoulder some of the load for his quarterback if Rodgers plays. Expect Jaylen Warren, Darnell Washington, and Kenneth Gainwell to be early and frequent targets. Expect safe throws. Expect rhythm passes. Expect Chicago to dare Pittsburgh to sustain drives the hard way.
And honestly? I’m completely on board with that plan.
What worries me isn’t Rodgers’ ability—it’s his instinct. When he senses a limitation—physical or otherwise—his competitive edge sometimes pushes him into uncomfortable risk-taking. That’s where the danger lies. That’s also where Jaylon Johnson thrives.
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Before his injury, Johnson was one of the most technically sound corners in the league. In 2024, he recorded two interceptions, 54 tackles, and allowed some of the lowest separation numbers among outside corners. His efficiency, instincts, and route anticipation are traits that quarterbacks ignore at their own peril.
He’s a superstar eager to return and help his team—a mirror image of Rodgers fighting to stay on the field for Pittsburgh.
If Johnson is active on Sunday, Rodgers must adjust his approach accordingly. This isn’t about being scared—it’s about being smart. Playing through pain is admirable, but forcing throws against one of the league’s most opportunistic defenses is unnecessary risk during a must-win stretch.
Both men want to make an impact.
Pittsburgh just has to hope Rodgers’ impact is the one that defines the game.