Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers went through a full practice Friday and has been cleared to start against the Miami Dolphins on Sunday. Officially, he’s listed as probable on the injury report.
“I thought Aaron Rodgers looked fine today at practice,” coach Mike McCarthy said. “From my perspective, I would say he’s ready to go. But ultimately, it’s a medical decision. Unless there’s any type of setback between now and the game, I anticipate Aaron to play on Sunday.”
Rodgers has passed all of the post-concussion tests mandated by the league.
The Packers defensive leader, linebacker Clay Matthews, hasn’t recovered quite as quickly, however. Matthews, who injured his hamstring against Washington, is questionable and will be a game-time decision.
“I talked to Clay this morning before he went into treatments, and we’ll give him all the way up to game time to see if he can go. But he’s making progress. He’s close,” McCarthy said.
If Matthews is unable to go, the Packers will use a rotation at outside linebacker that includes Brad Jones, Brady Poppinga and Frank Zombo.
Linebacker Brandon Chillar and tackle Mark Tauscher are also doubtful. Chillar will miss his third consecutive game with a shoulder injury.
The Packers are hurting on the defensive line, as well. Both Ryan Pickett and Mike Neal are questionable. It’s possible both players will be ready, but if they both sit, the Packers will be forced to start either rookie C.J. Wilson, second-year man Jarius Wynn or recently re-signed Mike Montgomery — none of which are appealing options.
The Packers did get some good news in that tight end Donald Lee will return after suffering a chest injury, last week. With Jermichael Finley out, Lee, Tom Crabtree and rookie Andrew Quarless should see more opportunities.
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