Green Bay Packers veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers revealed details of the surgery he underwent to repair his injured collarbone. During the "Clueless Gamer" segment on Conan O'Brien's late-night show, Rodgers said that 13 screws were inserted into his collarbone to help it recover. Rodgers refused to confirm or deny his previous statement, telling Jason Wilde of ESPN that sometimes you exaggerate or sometimes tell the truth on television. The 33-year-old Rodgers sustained the injury when he was brought down to the ground by Minnesota Vikings linebacker Anthony Barr.
It was earlier believed that Rodgers’ injury could end his season, but the Packers placed him on injured reserve, hoping that he could return late in the season if the team has a chance to make it to the postseason, according to Rob Demovsky of ESPN.com.
Adam Schefter of ESPN reported that doctors have informed the Packers that Rodgers may be able to throw in six weeks. If that happens, Rodgers can return in Week 15 against the Carolina Panthers on December 17. However, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network Insider reported that the existence of screws and a possible “longer plate” could mean that Rodgers will not return this season. Packers coach Mike McCarthy said the team is focusing on long-term options at this point.
With Rodgers out, the Packers are currently relying on backup Brett Hundley to carry the team. However, Hundley has a 0-2 record in two games this season while the Packers dropped to 4-3, 2nd in the NFC North.
Patriots' Hightower out for season
The New England Patriots lost a key member of their defensive unit after it was determined that linebacker Dont'a Hightower has a torn pec and is out for the season, per Rapoport.
Hightower’s absence will be a big blow to the Patriots defense as he was the biggest playmaker in the front seven, aside from his leadership on and off the field. In the past three games with Hightower leading the way, the Patriots defense is fourth in the NFL in points allowed. With Hightower out for season, coach Bill Belichick will rely on linebackers Kyle Van Noy, Elandon Roberts and veteran David Harris.
Belichick could also acquire new linebackers before Tuesday’s trade deadline. Hightower, who recently signed a four-year $35.5 million contract in March, tallied 12 tackles and two sacks in five games this season. The Patriots will face the Los Angeles Chargers Sunday.
Panthers tight end to play Sunday
After missing Week 7 due to concussion, Carolina Panthers linebacker Luke Kuechly is expected to play against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Sunday. Kuechly was a full participant in practice, but he has yet to clear concussion protocol. When asked if the linebacker will play, Panthers coach Ron Rivera replied “that's my understanding." Kuechly suffered a concussion in their loss to the Philadelphia Eagles.
