Packers QB Rodgers has no structural damage in shoulder

Sep 29, 2008 - 7:32 PM GREEN BAY, Wisconsin (Ticker) -- The day-after report on quarterback Aaron Rodgers was better than expected.

Green Bay Packers coach Mike McCarthy said Monday that there was no structural damage in Rodgers' throwing shoulder, which he termed as a sprain but was feared separated in Sunday's 31-20 loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

"They are going to rehab him today and tomorrow and we'll have a better idea," McCarthy said. "Speaking to Aaron, he has every intention of playing. It's just something we'll have to continue to rehab and monitor."

Rodgers suffered the injury while scrambling for a seven-yard gain with about five minutes remaining in the third quarter Sunday. He remained in the game and tossed a 48-yard touchdown pass to Greg Jennings on Green Bay's next possession.

But Rodgers, in his first season as Green Bay's starter, indicated after the game that he could possibly have a separated shoulder.

"I hurt my shoulder on the possession in the third quarter, right before I threw the touchdown pass," Rodgers said. "I was not sure if I dislocated it or what."

McCarthy said the team will learn more about Rodgers in Wednesday's practice.

"It's important for him to have the strength and see how well he throws on Wednesday, and Thursday morning how he recovers," McCarthy said. "Coaches will get Matt Flynn ready regardless; reps will be split."

Flynn, a rookie, replaced Rodgers for two series in the fourth quarter. Rodgers returned with Green Bay facing a 23-21 deficit only to throw an interception to Gaines Adams with 2:11 remaining.

Rodgers, who was sacked three times and threw three interceptions, did not return for Green Bay's final possession.

Rodgers, 24, has gotten off to a solid start in his first season as the heir apparent to Brett Favre in Green Bay. Through four games, Rodgers has passed for 961 yards and six touchdowns.

A former first-round draft selection, Rodgers had not thrown an interception prior to Sunday's loss.