Rutgers’ Eric LeGrand paralyzed from neck down
Rutgers’ defensive tackle Eric LeGrand is paralysed from the neck down after colliding with Army’s Malcolm Brown on a kick return. The injury occurred with only five minutes remaining in the fourth quarter of a game between Rutgers and Army on Sunday, which
was eventually won by Rutgers in overtime.
After the collision with Brown, LeGrand remained motionless on the ground for several minutes. The junior was removed from the field on a stretcher and had emergency surgery at Hackensack University Medical Centre. LeGrand is currently in the intensive care
unit at the hospital and does not have any feeling below his neck.
Rutgers’ head coach Greg Schiano spoke about the youngster, stating.
“Eric is a big, strong, nice guy, who when he hits the field, always comes to the facility with great energy. A guy who really loves to play the game. I think a lot of people like [the game] a lot. This kid loves it. He’s a great team mate.”
LeGrand is said to be a leader on the club and is part of the team’s leadership council, placing him right behind the captains in rank.
The club is hopeful that LeGrand will be able to make a full recovery from his injury. Football has seen this type of injury before and certain players have been able to come back completely healthy, while others never fully recovered.
Schiano spoke about the injury and the likelihood of a full recovery.
“No one knows. We are gonna believe that Eric LeGrand is gonna walk onto the field again with us. That’s what we believe.”
The victory over Army was an important one for Rutgers as it moved them into second place in the Big East standings, improving their record to 4-2.
Rutgers next game will take place at home against Pittsburgh on Saturday 23 October.
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