For a torn ACL, surgery typically doesn't take place for a few weeks following the injury. The swelling needs to go down before they can operate.
Years ago (I had mine 19 years ago when I was 18), they said if they caught it and operated on it in the first 48-72 hours, the recovery time would be reduced, but I am guessing that was an old wive's tale. Reality is, with the leaps they have made in that surgery over the last 20 years (mine was done by the Giants' knee surgeon), he could wait until early December and be OK for May minicamps...of course, he should get it done asap, but he has time either way. I believe when I had mine done, I was good to skate after 7 months and good for contact after nine...it has almost been cut in half. Personally, I am curious to see how TO does..regardless of whether a team picks him up, I am waiting to see how long it takes for him to publically say he is ready.