New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers is eyeing a return to the field in 'mid-December,' according to NBC's Melissa Stark.
Rodgers has been out of action since tearing his Achillies tendon in Week 1 against the Buffalo Bills, only four plays into his Jets debut.
The Jets offense has struggled with backup QB Zach Wilson under center in Rodgers' place, but had still compiled a 4-4 record heading into Sunday night's game against the Las Vegas Raiders.
'I know it sounds insane but you do a good surgery, you have a good patient, it makes this possible,' Rodgers told Stark.
The quarterback has reportedly progressed far enough in his recovery to be running on a weight-limiting treadmill. He has already been jogging at 50 per cent of his body weight. His goal for the upcoming week is to increase that to 75 per cent.
Aaron Rodgers is planning to return to the field from his torn Achillies in 'mid-December'
Rodgers has been dropping back and making throws before the Jets games for several weeks
Rodgers suffered a torn left Achilles only four plays into his New York Jets debut in Week 1
STANDARD ACHILLES RECOVERY PROCESS POST-SUGERY
Two weeks post-surgery: No weight bearing, use of crutches
Four to six weeks: Gentle motion exercises once stitches are removed, transitioned to a walking boot
Six to eight weeks: Walking in the boot with light pressure, increased motion exercises
Eight to 12/16 weeks: General physical therapy to maintain strength and motion
Four to six months: Sport-specific rehab
Six to 12 months: Increasing amount of activity, depending on the sport
Nine to 12 months: Possibility they are able to play at a high level
The 39-year-old QB has been shocking fans for weeks with his ability to drop back and throw passes during pregame warmups with the team.
Former Titans offensive tackle Taylor Lewan recently appeared on the Up & Adams Show and said he had also heard from a source that Rodgers was planning to return before to play before 2024.
'I talked to somebody the other day and they said he's coming back in December,' Lewan told host Kay Adams. 'That's what I heard.'
Reports emerged shortly after Rodgers underwent surgery on the injured Achilles, stating that he may target an improbable return in the playoffs after undergoing a relatively new process that placed an internal brace in his ankle known as a 'speed bridge.'
The procedure was performed by renowned orthopedic surgeon Dr. Neal ElAttrache, who also operated on Kobe Bryant's torn Achilles in 2013 and saw the legendary Laker return to the court in eight months.
Although no specific timetable or guarantees have been given for Rodgers' possible return to the field, it appears the 10-time Pro Bowler could yet recover much faster than normally seen after an Achilles tear.
The news about his planned return is not the only surprise Rodgers provided during the Jets' weekend in Las Vegas, after he shocked a fan who was wearing his jersey before posing for a photo.