Last we heard, filming for "Maze Runner: The Death Cure" was put on hold indefinitely while star Dylan O'Brien recovered from his injuries. Initially, there was hope that he would return to filming that right about now, but a statement was issued in late April to say his injuries were "very serious" and he needed more time. But there's hope on the horizon, at least for another movie, since Deadline said O'Brien is in negotiations to play Mitch Rapp in "American Assassin," based on Vince Flynn's bestselling series. Michael Keaton has already signed on to co-star as Stan Hurley, the Cold War veteran who mentors the young assassin.

According to Deadline, O'Brien would not only play the title character in the "star-making role" as a covert CIA operative, he'd age in the role over time -- starting as college-aged Mitch, and then maturing in what is hoped to be a film franchise. Since Mitch Rapp appears in 14 bestselling novels, there's a lot of potential for the role.

What about O'Brien's injuries? Deadline said production on "American Assassin" begins in the fall, "and they will be working around O'Brien's recovery from injuries." Production doesn't necessarily mean filming, there's a lot to do before the actors show up, but this does suggest O'Brien is progressing in his recovery, especially since this sounds like another action-packed role.

What about "Maze Runner"? No idea. Maybe O'Brien can finish filming that before starting "American Assassin" -- if/when he's even confirmed for Mitch Rapp, beyond these negotiations. Or perhaps they'll have to push "Death Cure" back a year. Stay tuned.

What do you think about Dylan O'Brien as Mitch Rapp?

Want more stuff like this? Like us on Facebook.