FLORHAM PARK, N.J. — New York Jets coach Rex Ryan says quarterback Mark Sanchez's recovery from offseason knee surgery is probably ahead of where the team initially thought it would be.

Ryan said Thursday that Sanchez is "doing fantastic" after repairing the patella-stabilizing ligament in his left knee in February. The second-year quarterback has participated in individual drills since organized team activities began last Monday.

Sanchez also surprised Ryan when he sneaked onto the field during 11-on-11 team drills for the first time, but it was only for one handoff. Ryan expects him to be 100 percent in time for training camp, if not for minicamp next month.

Sanchez has said he's itching to fully participate, but understands the need for caution.