Jets' Aaron Rodgers 'ahead of schedule,' but hurdles remain - ESPN

New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers, attempting to make an unprecedentedly quick return from Achilles surgery, said Tuesday that he's «obviously, ahead of schedule» but cautioned that he still has many hurdles to clear before he'll be back on the field.

Rodgers, in his weekly spot on «The Pat McAfee Show,» said it «makes absolutely no sense» to have a specific timetable for return. He left no doubt, however, that he wants to play again this season. Before that can happen, he said, he must meet specific markers in his recovery, followed by «practicing and everybody signing off on it. Hopefully, we get to have those conversations.»

The four-time MVP surprised many by walking without crutches and throwing for five minutes before Sunday's game at MetLife Stadium. His swift rate of recovery, coupled with the Jets' two-game winning streak, has fueled speculation about a late-season return. At 3-3, the Jets could be playing meaningful games down the stretch, providing motivation for Rodgers.

«You have to hit a bunch of different things and be found a certain way, but that's the goal,» he said.

Speaking from his rehab facility in the Los Angeles area, Rodgers said his next goal is jogging. From there, it's explosive movements, followed by practice and pregame warmups. He said he's working in the gym on weight transfer from side to side and movement in a small area, noting that his recovery should be «a little easier» because it's his left foot, not his right — his push-off leg when throwing.

«I'm just not quite walking perfectly normal, but throwing feels great,» he said.

Rodgers, who injured his left Achilles on the fourth play of the season, had surgery Sept. 13 — almost five weeks ago. Medical experts say it takes three