Pryor hopes to be healthy for camp

FLORHAM PARK, N.J. — Terrelle Pryor tried pushing himself through practice and games last season until his ailing right ankle had enough.

The wide receiver’s one season in Washington was a major disappointment because of the early season injury that eventually sidelined him. Now with the New York Jets, the former Ohio State quarter back turned-wide receiver is looking for a big-time comeback — as long as he can get — and stay — healthy.

“It’s big because I love it here,” Pryor said Thursday after New York’s three-day minicamp ended. “I’d like to finish my career here.”

Pryor, who turns 29 next Wednesday, was unable to practice during organized team activities or minicamp because he had arthroscopic surgery on his right ankle with a different injury from the one that shut him down with the Redskins. He was in a walking boot until Wednesday, but is uncertain to be ready for the start of training camp in late-July.

“We’ll see how his progress goes over the summer and we’ll deal with it when we come back,” coach Todd Bowles said.

Pryor remains optimistic about his chances of being able to pass his physical and immediately practice with his teammates.

“I believe so,” said Pryor, adding that the decision will be that of Bowles and head athletic trainer John Mellody. “But, for now, in my mind, I’ll be there the first day.”

Pryor has had a long, winding and sometimes wild football journey to get to New York, where he signed a one-year deal worth $4.5 million after also taking a free-agent visit to Seattle over the winter and garnering some interest from Cleveland.

He was intrigued at the thought of playing in offensive coordinator Jeremy Bates’ system, and knew about Karl Dorrell’s reputation for being one of the league’s most-respected wide receivers coaches.

“I think he can take me to the next level of where I’m trying to go,” Pryor said.

Julio Cortez / Associated Press Terrelle Pryor, pictured here on June 5, is hoping to regain his health this season with the Jets.