GREEN BAY, Wis. - Aaron Rodgers didn't practice Wednesday because of a lingering left calf injury. The quarterback left no doubt about his plans for Sunday when the Green Bay Packers host the Dallas Cowboys.
"No, I'm going Sunday," Rodgers said. "Just a matter of how."
Missing practice was part of the plan for Rodgers, who has dealt with the injury for about three weeks. While the Packers practiced inside the frigid Hutson Center training facility, Rodgers stayed exclusively in the training room for treatment.
He hopes occasional acupuncture will also help, along with the valuable rest the Packers received for earning a bye for the opening round of the playoffs. It's possible Rodgers could also wear a wrap to further protect his lower left leg.
There is progress, though "it's never enough for Aaron," coach Mike McCarthy said. "But I think the training staff feels good about it and we feel confident in the direction we're going."
Rodgers at less than 100 percent health is still better than most other quarterbacks. Two weeks ago against Detroit, Rodgers had to be carted to the locker room after aggravating the calf injury.
He limped back on to the field in the middle of the third quarter, throwing for one score and tumbling in from 1 yard for another to help lead the Packers to victory and a fourth straight NFC North crown.
Rodgers is such a stickler for preparation that no one in the locker room doubts the team's leader can play well without practice.
"We would definitely love to be able to have that preparation, but health is the most important thing for him at this time. You've got to trust the system," receiver Randall Cobb said.
The injury, though, has limited Rodgers' mobility the last two weeks, which in turn has affected his trademark ability to extend plays.