Mike Shanahan: 'Robert Griffin III ahead of schedule'

Mike Shanahan has said that Robert Griffin III is ahead of schedule in his recovery from a knee ligament surgery.

The Washington Redskins quarterback, who was named offensive rookie of the year in 2012, is a doubt for the start of next season after undergoing an operation to repair tears to two ligaments in his knee in January.

The team's head coach told reporters: "Robert is doing well, he's getting some great work in here, working out a couple times a day, about six hours a day, seven hours.

"He is ahead of schedule according to Larry [Hess, the team's head athletic trainer]. That means the muscles are stronger than they anticipated and he is doing everything he can to be ready for this season.

"Is he going to be ready? I have no idea. I'm sure keeping my fingers crossed. And if work has anything to do with it, he probably will."

The 23-year-old led the Redskins to the NFC East title and the playoffs during his first season with the side.