The San Francisco 49ers may be getting wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk back earlier than expected.

NBC Sports Bay Area’s Matt Maiocco was on KNBR in San Francisco on Thursday and gave the first update on Aiyuk that included any kind of timeline for his return.

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“From what I understand he’s doing really well,” Maiocco said (h/t 49ers Webzone). “Also from what I understand is it’s not out of the question that he could be ready Week 1. But also, because there was more to it than just a clean ACL (tear) −it was ACL, MCL, some other stuff − that they want to be extra cautious with him. And so even though the timeline, everything being equal, might point toward there’s a chance Week 1 and there still might be a chance Week 1, I think the feeling inside the organization has always been ‘don’t take any chances. Start him off on PUP when they report to training camp on July 22nd. And then more than likely just have that carry over to the regular season.”

That a Week 1 return isn’t ruled out is great news considering the extent of the damage Aiyuk sustained when he took a hit to his knee against the Kansas Chiefs in Week 7 last season. Even if the club isn’t anticipating their All-Pro being back on the field for the season opener, it paints a positive picture of his recovery and for his chances to make an impact once he does return.

An overly-cautious approach from San Francisco makes sense. They need Aiyuk to be fully healthy if their offense is going to reach its peak. If he’s technically ready to play by Week 1, but they keep him on the PUP list while he continues strengthening his knee and getting himself in playing shape, it gives him a better chance to hit the ground running when he comes off the injured list.

If Aiyuk starts the season on the PUP list he has to miss at least four weeks. Should he return in Week 5, it would give him a significant ramp up time to get something close to full strength in time for a potential playoff run.

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The 49ers open training camp on July 24. It sounds like we won’t see Aiyuk during camp, but the fact there’s any chance is a great sign for him and the team.

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This article originally appeared on Niners Wire: 49ers injury news: Brandon Aiyuk update a positive one from insider