Day 45… this is some bull**” — Jayson Tatum gets real about how tough achilles rehab has been

Jayson Tatum’s raw “Day 45… this is some bull****” post grabbed attention—and for good reason. Thirty days earlier, he was optimistic (“days starting to get a little easier”), and now he’s calling it like it is.

Such candor from a six‑time All‑Star and 2024 NBA champ lays bare how grueling an Achilles rehab can be—even for someone at the top of their game.

Boston Celtics playing it safe as Jayson Tatum battles through each day

On Day 45 post-surgery, Jayson Tatum shared a straightforward update on social media: "Day 45… this is some bull****." The shift in his tone—from his Day 25 update, where he mentioned, "days starting to get a little easier"—shows how the rehab process can have its ups and downs.

It’s a good reminder that recovery isn’t a straight path—even for a superstar who averaged 26.8 points, 8.7 rebounds, and 6.0 assists per game last season.

Celtics president Brad Stevens echoed that sentiment, reiterating, “We won’t put a projected timeline on him for a long, long time… It’s baby steps right now.” He said that although Tatum has come a long way, there’s still no fixed date for his return. Everything is contingent on ensuring he’s fully prepared and in great health before stepping back onto the court.

Tatum's right Achilles ruptured in Game 4 of the Eastern Conference semifinals on May 12, 2025, right after he delivered an incredible playoff performance: 42 points, eight rebounds, four assists, and four steals. He went under the knife the next day and was promptly sidelined—most likely for the remainder of the 2025-26 season. To manage their cap space and a looming luxury-tax apron, Boston dealt veterans Kristaps Porzingis and Jrue Holiday that week.Also Read:

Typically, Achilles rehab lasts around 9 to 12 months, and players usually find their full explosiveness returning only in the season after they come back. Tatum, being 27, has the advantage of youth and great medical care—but every day in rehab is still a careful and unpredictable process.