At just 27 years old, Jayson Tatum has already cemented his legacy as one of the NBA’s elite, boasting five All-Star nods, an NBA championship, and the 2024 Eastern Conference Finals MVP award. But his season ended abruptly with a devastating Achilles tendon tear during the Eastern Conference Semifinals against the Knicks, reminiscent of Kevin Durant’s 2019 injury that kept him out for over a year. Like Durant, who needed 12-14 months to return, Tatum underwent surgery in May and faces a long road back.
Yet, his rehab is going remarkably well-he’s been spotted walking without a boot or brace, a huge step forward. If things keep progressing smoothly, he could suit up for the 2025-26 season. Without Tatum, the Celtics will have a fresh look, leaning heavily on Finals MVP Jaylen Brown to guide a revamped squad through what promises to be a challenging year. Even as the Celtics make some changes to their lineup after their 2024 title win, Tatum’s possible return for the end of the season or the playoffs puts them back in the running for the Eastern Conference title.
Tatum’s Surprise Visit Lights Up Patriots-Commanders Joint Session
Jayson Tatum stopped by the practice session between the New England Patriots and Washington Commanders in Boston, where he connected with second-year quarterback Drake Maye and reigning Rookie of the Year Jayden Daniels. Maye is showing promise as Boston’s next sports star, similar to Tatum, and Daniels, fresh off his award-winning debut, is poised to make a big impact in the upcoming season.
In the training camp Tatum looked strong, happy and without any noticeable brace. It’s good news for him as he continues to recover, but it probably means he’ll be out for most, if not all, of the upcoming NBA season. Back in June, team president Brad Stevens said the All-Star is doing well after his operation, but he also said there’s no rush to get him back.
In their joint practice, Drake Maye went 18/27 for 3 TDs and 1 INT, while Jayden Daniels went 15/24 for 1 TD and took 4 sacks, showing Maye’s edge in that session. Daniels’ 2024 season was more impactful overall (by far), but Maye’s potential shines through given his tougher circumstances.
Spotlight on Maye and Daniels’ Impressive Rookie Campaigns
Drake Maye grabbed the reins for the Patriots in Week 6 against Houston, stepping up as the starter amid a tough year. His 2-9 record reflects the team’s broader issues, with gaps across the roster needing fixes, but the quarterback spot feels solid with Maye at the helm. Heading into his second season, he’s set to build on that foundation under a new head coach and with upgrades to the offensive unit. Jayden Daniels, meanwhile, delivered a standout first year, earning Rookie of the Year honors with electrifying plays that lived up to the hype and set a high bar for what’s next.
Take a detailed look at the rookie performances of Drake Maye and Jayden Daniels
Drake Maye (Patriots, 13 games, 12 starts):
Passing: 199/299 (66.6%), 2,276 yards, 15 TDs, 10 INTs, 88.5 passer rating
Rushing: 55 carries, 513 yards (9.3 yards per carry, NFL QB leader), 2 TDs
Notable: Faced the highest pressure rate among rookie QBs due to a poor offensive line (32nd-ranked). Second-highest scramble rate, with 6 fumbles showing ball security issues.
Jayden Daniels (Commanders, 15 starts, 14 full games):
Passing: 296/425 (69.7%), 3,303 yards, 22 TDs, 8 INTs, 101.3 passer rating
Rushing: 126 carries, 737 yards (5.8 yards per carry), 6 TDs
Notable: Led the NFL’s second-most efficient offense since 2000 (EPA per drive). Had 23 scoring drives vs. 19 incomplete passes in the first four weeks, a historic mark.
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