New York Giants rookie Chad Jones underwent surgery Friday morning following a single-car accident in New Orleans. The 21-year-old was admitted to LSU Public Hospital in critical condition after smashing his 2010 Range Rover into a pole at 7 a.m. ET, on a six-lane thoroughfare.
Jones was reportedly in the far left lane and turned the wheel abruptly to get his tires off the streetcar track grooves. The vehicle then rolled into a pole that carries an overhead electrical wire powering the streetcar line. The concrete base of the pole was cracked and broken but the streetcar line was able to resume operation after the accident scene was cleared.
The two-sport standout athlete, formerly from LSU, was operated on to repair a fractured femur and ankle. His agent, Rocky Arceneaux, reported that doctors were concerned about the poor blood flow in his lower leg.
Jones signed with the Giants last week. A team spokesman said: “We continue to gather information on Chad’s condition, and obviously our primary concern is for his health and well being. Jerry Reese and his staff have maintained contact with Chad’s family throughout the day.”
Jones’ former LSU football coach Les Miles wrote on Twitter: “Just got news about Chad Jones’ car accident. We are praying for Chad and his family. Keep him in your prayers.”
View the accident video showing the athlete being extricated from the vehicle below: