Wednesday 13 December 2017 06:18, UK
Aaron Rodgers has given the Green Bay Packers' play-off hopes a boost by confirming he has been medically cleared to return.
Quarterback Rodgers has been out since week six when he suffered a fractured collarbone in his right throwing shoulder against the Minnesota Vikings.
Whether Rodgers would be able to return has been up in the air since, but the 34-year-old returned to practice last week to open up the opportunity he could be activated from injured reserve.
Rodgers confirmed late on Tuesday, after a day of consultation with Packers medical staff, that he would be available.
Rodgers said on Instagram: "It's been a long road from that day to this, but I'm happy to say I've been medically cleared to return.
"Thanks for all the love, support, prayers, and well wishes over the past eight weeks and a big thank you to Dr [Pat] McKenzie and our incredible training staff. #riseagain."
Brett Hundley has started the last seven games for the Packers, winning three of them as they dropped to 7-6.
That record leaves them in the hunt for a wildcard spot, at least, although they have tough games ahead against the Carolina Panthers (9-4) and NFC North leaders Minnesota Vikings (10-3).
The Packers then finish their regular season against the Detroit Lions, who also have a 7-6 record, and will almost certainly need to win at least two of those games, if not all three.
