Packers QB Aaron Rodgers ‘no layup’ to play Sunday vs. Vikings

Though Aaron Rodgers already declared he would play in Sunday’s tilt with the Minnesota Vikings, the Green Bay Packers remain less certain. On Thursday, Packers head coach Mike McCarthy describe Rodgers’ outlook for Week 2 as “no layup.”

Rodgers didn’t participate in Wednesday’s practice, instead spending time with the Packers’ rehab group on the sidelines. That appears to be the team’s plan again today, with Rodgers ramping up his work as the game nears. McCarthy said that Rodgers does intend to play, but the medical staff has yet to determine his availability.

Even if the Packers have expressed cautious regarding Rodgers, the Vikings still plan to see him on the field come Sunday. Minnesota head coach Mike Zimmer said the two-time MVP “walks on water, so I’m sure he’s going to play.”

If Rodgers’ cannot go, the Packers would turn to second-year signal-caller DeShone Kizer. Kizer replaced Rodgers briefly during the season opener, turning the ball over twice to Khalil Mack. Tim Boyle, who spent Week 1 on the inactive list, would serve as the backup.