Zac Boyer will be entering his third season covering the Washington Redskins for The Free Lance-Star this fall. Make sure to follow Zac on Twitter (@ZacBoyer) for the latest updates or e-mail him with any questions at zboyer@freelancestar.com.
Jarvis Jenkins Says He Is Ahead Of Schedule In ACL Rehabilitation
By ZAC BOYER | zboyer@freelancestar.com | @ZacBoyer
ASHBURN – Washington Redskins defensive end Jarvis Jenkins said Thursday he is “a little bit ahead of schedule” in his rehabilitation from a torn ACL in his right knee.
Jenkins tore the ligament early in the Redskins’ preseason victory over Baltimore on Aug. 25 and was placed on injured reserve on Aug. 29. He underwent surgery to repair it on Sept. 1, at which time he said there was no damage to any other ligaments or cartilage in the knee.
“I just started really lifting again and getting a lot of mobilization in my legs, so I mean, it’s going to take a long time,” Jenkins said. “I’ve just got to be patient, but things are going good right now.”
Jenkins, a second-round draft pick out of Clemson and the 41st player chosen overall, was expected to play a big role for the Redskins’ defense. He started against Indianapolis on Aug. 19 and against the Ravens in place of Adam Carriker, who did not play because of blisters on his heels.
The rehabilitation schedule for a torn ACL is between four and six months. Jenkins had been walking on crutches around Redskins Park, but was not using them Thursday.
He has been doing light lifting and walking on an anti-gravity treadmill, which is designed to reduce one’s body weight. He has also been attending team meetings and watching film, and has tried to use the time not only to learn the defense but also to help his fellow rookies, including linebacker Ryan Kerrigan and nose tackle Chris Neild.
“If I can’t be out there, I’m going to help them,” Jenkins said. “That’s the mindset I’ve got to have.”
