There was the shot of him that someone posted here from a post game interview that showed the black kinesiology tape on his right shoulder.



Apparently not only are there are different degrees, or grades, of rotator cuff injury, but also different sizes that determine the severity. I'm sure all would have an effect to differing degrees on the ability to throw a football. Not all require surgery.

Cuff Tear Size

Small	0-1 cm
Medium	1-3 cm
Large	3-5 cm
Massive	> 5 cm (involves multiple tendons. In the European classification a massive tear is defined as involving 2 or more tendons)

Ellman Classification of Partial-Thickness Rotator Cuff Tears

Grade	Description
I	<3mm (<25% thickness)
II	3-6mm (25-50%)
III	> 6 mm (>50%)