Jayson Tatum ‘Way Ahead’ in Achilles Rehab, But No Return Timeline Set

Boston Celtics superstar Jayson Tatum is reportedly making substantial progress in his recovery from a torn Achilles tendon suffered during the 2025 NBA Playoffs. Still, there remains no official timetable for his return.

According to Heavy Sports’ Steve Bulpett, a scout who recently observed Tatum, said he appeared significantly ahead of schedule.

“He was moving really well,” the scout said. “There might have been a slight limp or something, but the surprising thing to me is that he didn’t have a boot for any of it.

“I’m no doctor, but I’ve seen guys coming back from Achilles’ tears, and he looked way ahead. I was kind of shocked to see how well he was moving. I have no idea for what any of this means for when he can come back. I’m sure him and the Celtics’ medical people have their program set up, and they’ll make sure that he’s where he needs to be when he does get back. But he looks great right now. Of course, he didn’t do any running or even jogging, but he was in great shape and he had no trouble doing his part at the camp.”

Tatum sustained the injury on May 12 in Game 4 of the Eastern Conference semifinals against the New York Knicks and underwent surgery the next day.

Brad Stevens: “He’s Actually Progressed Great”

Roughly six weeks after the surgery, Celtics president of basketball operations Brad Stevens declined to offer a timeline but acknowledged Tatum’s positive recovery.

“He’s actually progressed great, but I don’t know what that means in regard to projected timelines,” Stevens said in June. “But that will be in consultation with him … and everybody else to make sure when he hits the court, he is fully ready, and fully healthy. And that will be the priority.”

Tatum showed fans his rehab earlier this month via social media. The 27-year-old has built a reputation as a relentless worker, which likely fueled his recovery progress.

Uncertainty Remains for 2025–26

Tatum is coming off his fourth straight All-NBA First Team selection after averaging 26.8 points, 8.7 rebounds and 6.0 assists per game last season. Whether he will return at any point in 2025–26 remains unclear.

The Celtics are expected to remain competitive with Jaylen Brown leading the offense, but Tatum’s presence on the court could be the difference between another deep playoff run and a disappointing early exit.

Still, Boston appears committed to prioritizing Tatum’s long-term health.