Brown's comeback from pec injury ahead of schedule

Injured Parramatta forward Nathan Brown is hopeful of making an early return to the paddock after rupturing his left pectoral muscle in round one.

Brown remains in a sling five weeks after surgery, but initial fears that he could miss the rest of the season have been allayed, with the 26-year-old confident of returning sooner than expected.

"I'm looking at the 10-12-week mark. I'll get an idea how quick I get back when I'm out of the sling and back running," Brown said.

"I've done my right side previously. People have come back around that 10-12-week mark. That's my aim but I'll come back whenever it feels strong.

"It's going good, I'm ahead of schedule and doing everything I can to get back on the field."

Brown continues to keep up his fitness levels while watching his Eels teammates from the sidelines after lasting just 18 minutes before leaving the field in the season-opener against Penrith.

The former Wests Tigers prop will watch the Easter Monday clash from the stands when Bankwest Stadium is unveiled in its first official fixture at the new venue.

"It was heartbreaking to be honest but that's footy and you've got to bounce back," Brown said.

"I'm very disappointed not to play but am equally as excited to go out there and support the boys.

"It's going to be a great atmosphere and the positive for me is when I get back I'll have most of the home games at the back end of the season.

"They're very loyal fans, Parramatta supporters, through thick and thin they're always there and hopefully we get more packed out crowds."

The Eels are looking to bounce back following their 19-0 loss to the Raiders in Canberra.

"It was disappointing to watch, we made it hard for ourselves," Brown said.

"I'm sure the boys realise that and will work."