Ravens' Terrence Brooks ahead of schedule in recovery from torn ACL, MCL

Baltimore Ravens safety Terrence Brooks will begin the season on the physically unable to perform list as he continues to recover from a torn ACL and MCL, but he isn't ruling out a return in 2015.

Brooks, who injured his knee in December, told Aaron Wilson of the Baltimore Sun that he's making steady progress in his rehabilitation.

"It's going really good," Brooks said. "To be honest, we're probably a little bit ahead of schedule. I haven't had a break since I've been hurt. It's been straight rehab since Dr. (James) Andrews did the surgery.

"I actually had the ACL and the MCL. The MCL was a little bit too damaged to let it heal on its own, so they went ahead and took care of that one, too. It's feeling pretty strong, though."

Brooks was selected in the third round of the 2014 draft, and while he didn't start a game for the Ravens in his rookie season, he did show potential, finishing with 19 tackles, two passes defended and a fumble recovery.

Opening the season on the PUP list means Brooks will be sidelined for at least the first six games.

"We're just hoping for the best, trying to get back as soon as possible," Brooks said. "We're taking precautions. We definitely don't want to rush back too fast. If you do get cleared, playing this year is definitely a goal. You don't want to rush it.

"For the most part, you have to be cautious and take it easy. After we get off of the PUP list, we'll see where we're at. I definitely want to get back into it, but we're taking our time. I have high hopes of being ready."