Frank Reich, Colts' head coach, gives an update on Carson Wentz's recovery from foot surgery. (0:53).
WESTFIELD (Ind.) Three weeks after a surgery to repair a fracture in his left foot, Carson Wentz was able to return to practice on Monday for the Indianapolis Colts.
Initial Colts statements stated that Wentz, who underwent foot surgery Aug. 2, would only be limited to practice this week. That's it.
Wentz was the first to take 7-on-7 reps for the first team and didn't switch to a backup quarterback until almost an hour into practice. Zach Pascal, a receiver, said that Wentz was "firing on all cylinders" during his first practice since July 29.
Frank Reich, Colts coach, stated that he first noticed him jumping around out there and thought his movements looked quite good.
Reich admitted that he was surprised to see Wentz back only three weeks after his surgery. Wentz was originally expected to be out for five to twelve weeks, according the Colts.
Reich stated that surgery was the best-case scenario, and that recovery was quick. Reich said, "Feels like his recovery is a week ahead."
Wentz expressed optimism that he will be able to return for the Colts' Week 1 matchup with the Seattle Seahawks.
After Monday's practice, Wentz said that he was optimistic but would wait to see how the body responds. "I've been through worse things, as long as it's not something I can do to make the situation worse.
Reich stated last week that Wentz should have at least two weeks practice before he plays in a regular season game. As long as he doesn’t experience any setbacks, he could practice for almost three weeks before facing the Seahawks.
When asked if three weeks was enough time to prepare for the regular season, Wentz replied "It's going have to be." "Would love as many reps here as possible. It's what I have been dealt.
How Wentz responds each day will be key.
Reich stated, "He must be able to do consecutive days of work and then get up to the point where it is possible to do everything." "Still not there."
Quenton Nelson, All-Pro guard, had the same surgery earlier this month as Wentz and was given the exact same timetable. Ryan Kelly, center, who had been out for left elbow injury, also returned Monday to practice.
