There’s very sobering and heart-wrenching news coming from Rutgers this afternoon as the school has issued a statement on the condition of defensive tackle Eric LeGrand.
The junior suffered what looked to be a very serious neck injury in Rutgers’ win over Army Saturday. Unfortunately for all involved, their worst fears have been realized.
According to a release issued by the school this afternoon, LeGrand underwent emergency surgery last night and into this morning to stabilize his spine in the C3-C4 level of the spinal cord. At this time, LeGrand has no movement below his neck.
LeGrand, per the release, is currently resting in the intensive care unit at a Hackensack hospital, where he will remain for the near future.
“We want to say thank you to everyone for all of your prayers, kind words, and well wishes,” the LeGrand family said in a statement. “We appreciate every single thought. Eric is in good spirits and we are praying for a full recovery.”
“Eric, his family and the Rutgers Football family believe he will recover,” said Rutgers head football coach Greg Schiano. “We ask our fans and the entire Rutgers community to believe and pray for Eric as he begins the recovery process.”
Our thoughts and prayers go out to Eric LeGrand, and will remain with him as he fights his way through this unimaginable situation.