But I believe with all my heart that when the doctors conclude that there would be little to no chance of re-injury in the course of normal play, then when he reaches the level of control with the football that can have him effective in the pocket, then he needs to be back out there no matter what week it is.
The Cardinals game on Oct. 27th will be 39 days post-surgery (about 5 1/2 weeks). Then the bye, then the Falcons come to the Dome on Nov. 20th, 53 days after the surgery (7 1/2 weeks).
Lots of unknowns regarding Brees' rehab and getting-back-in-the-groove practice work to come. Coming back against the Cardinals would be a gigantic deal, IMHO.