Brees says he's progressing in his injury rehab by 'leaps and bounds'

Drew Brees has some encouraging news for New Orleans Saints fans.

The veteran quarterback, who's been out of commission for three weeks with an injured thumb, told WWL Radio on Wednesday that he's progressing by "leaps and bounds" every day in his recovery.

"As far as a rehab perspective, we're fast-tracking this thing as fast as we can," Brees said.

The 40-year-old signal-caller, who's been vocal about beating his six-week recovery timetable, also discussed the fact that his surgically repaired thumb has put him in uncharted territory.

"No NFL quarterback has ever had this kind of surgery done on his throwing hand, with the internal brace," Brees explained.

When asked about a recent video he posted that shows him throwing a non-regulation ball, Brees admitted that while he can now grip an NFL football, he still has a ways to go before getting up to game speed. Brees also added that he'd be throwing a real NFL football, "sooner rather than later."

Brees hurt his thumb during a Week 2 loss to the Los Angeles Rams. Six-year pro Teddy Bridgewater has been solid in Brees' absence, leading the Saints to a 3-0 record in his three starts.