PurpleMenace.com - Daniels Done For Good

August 27, 2010

CougZone News Services
WazzuWatch.com

The playing days of sophomore safety LeAndre Daniels are over as the Washington State University football player has sustained a neck injury that will end his playing career.

Daniels, from San Leandro, Calif., has missed the past week of practice due to a neck injury. Though he appeared to be improving in the first few days, follow-up tests revealed a C1 neck fracture. Throughout the past week the WSU medical staff has consulted with several neurosurgical spine specialists regarding this type of fracture and follow-up care. It was determined that it is not safe to continue playing football.

The injury is stable and at no time has Daniels suffered any neurological damage. He will be fitted with a special hard collar and next week a procedure will fit him for a halo collar that he will wear for 8-10 weeks. Re-imaging during the healing process will determine if surgery is needed.

"This is a very unfortunate situation and my heart goes out to LeAndre," said Wazzu head football coach Paul Wulff. "He is such a wonderful young man, a great teammate and a great leader for this team. While his football career appears over, LeAndre will remain a part of our Cougar family, finish his degree and continue to make a positive impact in all phases of his life going forward."

Following a redshirt season in 2008, Daniels started the first two games in 2009 before suffering a season-ending broken leg against Hawai'i.

Washington State Sports Information contributed to this article.

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