Aaron Rodgers declares he’s ‘way ahead of schedule’ after ‘innovative’ surgery as Jets return hype grows

Aaron Rodgers did not offer a hopeful return date, but he is only accelerating momentum toward what could be a remarkable comeback.

The Jets quarterback, 39, said he is “way ahead of schedule” in his recovery from a torn Achilles.

He cautioned there are plenty of hurdles that remain as he heals and gains strength, but he is hitting his own checkpoints thus far.

Rodgers — less than five weeks removed from Sept. 13 surgery — threw on the field before the Jets’ 20-14 upset win over the Eagles on Sunday.

Rodgers appeared to be able to put weight on his left leg and ankle and walked without crutches.

Such was his hope so he could “feel more normal” and be around the team again.

“Another marker’s going to be jogging,” Rodgers said on his weekly appearance on “The Pat McAfee Show” on ESPN on Tuesday. “And then another marker is going to be going through a pregame workout probably and get on the practice field.

“All these are going to take time. It’s not just going to be: boom, boom, boom, boom. … These are all progressions that take time. But obviously, we’re ahead of schedule.”

As the Jets enter their bye week at 3-3 and very much in the AFC hunt, there is wonder whether Rodgers eventually can relieve Zach Wilson before the season is finished.

The possibility seemed impossible when Rodgers suffered what has just about always been a season-ending injury in Week 1.

Rodgers called the surgery performed by Dr. Neal ElAttrache “newer” and “innovative.”