Celtics' Tatum Discusses Achilles Rehab, Return Plans

All-Star forward has been sidelined for 39 weeks after rupturing Achilles last May

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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Boston Celtics star Jayson Tatum opened up about his lengthy recovery process from a ruptured Achilles injury suffered in May 2025. Tatum discussed the mental and physical toll of the 39-week rehab, saying it's been "exhausting" but that he's been supported by the organization, friends, and family. While Tatum has recently participated in some five-on-five practice with the team's G League affiliate, he stressed that doesn't necessarily mean he will return to action this season, as he's still focused on getting fully healthy before making that decision.

Why it matters

Tatum's return is a major storyline for the Celtics, who have maintained their place among the Eastern Conference elite despite his absence. His comments provide insight into his mindset as he weighs whether to try to come back this season or focus on a full recovery for next year.

The details

Tatum suffered the Achilles injury on May 12, 2025 during a game at Madison Square Garden. He has been rehabbing for the past 39 weeks, going through various "phases" of the recovery process. Tatum recently participated in five-on-five practice with the Celtics' G League affiliate, which he said was "good" to feel part of a team again, but stressed that doesn't mean he will definitely return this season.

  • Tatum ruptured his Achilles on May 12, 2025.
  • It has been 274 days (39 weeks) since the injury.
  • Tatum last spoke to the media at Celtics Media Day on September 29, 2025 - 134 days ago.

The players

Jayson Tatum

A star forward for the Boston Celtics who has been sidelined for the past 39 weeks after rupturing his Achilles in May 2025.

Joe Mazzulla

The head coach of the Boston Celtics, who has led the team to a 34-19 record through the first 53 games of the season despite Tatum's absence.

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What they’re saying

“Mentally, it's been tough. It's been exhausting. It's been, I can't stress it enough, it's been 39 weeks. It's been a lot of different phases throughout this process, but the organization has been there to support me. Friends, family, the whole nine, so I've had a lot of support throughout this journey.”

— Jayson Tatum (bostonsportsjournal.com)

“It was good. It was just kind of good to be out there, had a jersey on. Just kind of felt good to be a part of a team, and practice, and go through reps, and stuff like that.”

— Jayson Tatum (bostonsportsjournal.com)

“I'm feeling good. It was good to be a part of practice yesterday with the Maine G League guys. Today is 39 weeks, so it's been a long journey, and it's just like the progression of rehab. It was the next step. Doesn't mean that I'm coming back or not. You're just following the plan. It was just another step.”

— Jayson Tatum (bostonsportsjournal.com)

What’s next

Tatum will continue to progress through his rehab and evaluate whether he can return to action for the Celtics this season. The team and Tatum have not set a timeline for his potential return.

The takeaway

Tatum's open and honest discussion about the mental and physical toll of his lengthy Achilles recovery provides insight into the challenges star players face when dealing with major injuries. His comments show the Celtics are prioritizing his long-term health over a potential return this season as the team continues to thrive without him.