EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. -- Jets quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick, who tore at least one ligament in his non-throwing thumb last week, didn't rule out the possibility of surgery on Friday -- one day after New York faces the Bills.

That Fitzpatrick needs surgery isn't news -- the Jets made that clear from the outset -- but the timing is curious. It was widely assumed he would play through the injury and wait until after the season to have surgery.

Fitzpatrick told CBS in a production meeting that he'd probably opt for the surgery before the end of the season, the network reported Sunday during the Jets' victory over the Jacksonville Jaguars.

"Somebody reported that? I don't know, it's still kind of up in the air," Fitzpatrick said after the game.

Asked directly if Friday is a possibility, Fitzpatrick said, "Yes. I have to get surgery at some point."

Because of a 10-day break after New York plays the Bills, Fitzpatrick could conceivably be ready to play Week 11 without missing a game. If not, the Jets (5-3) could start Geno Smith against the Houston Texans on Nov. 22.

The Jets' bye week came in Week 5, so they have no other breaks in their schedule. That explains why Fitzpatrick sees Friday as the best opportunity.

"[It's] possible to play one week after UCL thumb surgery," said Dr. David Chao, a former longtime NFL team doctor. "The Jets would be smart to do it Friday and use the extra three days."

Playing for the first time with the injury, Fitzpatrick wore a brace under a protective glove. He said "it wasn't really a huge factor." He played a turnover-free game and completed 21 of 34 passes for 272 yards and two touchdowns. He was sacked twice.

"I thought we came into the game -- doctors, trainers, everybody -- with a great game plan, in terms of how I was going to manage," Fitzpatrick said. "I was great throughout the game. A number of times I was handing off with my left hand."

Coach Todd Bowles said Fitzpatrick did "fine" with his injury.

"He played his type of ballgame," Bowles said. "He didn't turn the ball over. He did a good job."