Auburn football player Brian Battie's family provides update after shooting

The family of Auburn football player Brian Battie provided a second positive update on his condition, weeks after he was injured in a shooting that left his brother dead.

Battie was removed from the intensive care unit and moved to the next level of his trauma care recovery, his family shared on his GoFundMe page.

“He has made great progress this week and is communicating more,” the family said.

“He smiles, laughs and says words. His two favorite words at the moment are Brother and Tommie. He was able to write his name yesterday…”

Tommie was the brother of Brian, who was pronounced dead at the scene of the May 18 shooting.

“…We ask all of our prayer warriors to continue to pray for Brian's recovery and complete healing, from the top of his head to the soles of his feet!”, the family added.

“He still has a long road to recovery, we are exploring all our options for the best. Rehabilitative care to address his head injury. We ask God to direct our steps as we advocate and seek the best for our Son »

There were fears that Battie could face lifelong paralysis as a result of the shooting, according to court documents obtained by the Tampa Bay Times.

But news from his family gives a more promising outlook on his health.

Shooting suspect Darryl Brookins turned himself in to authorities in Sarasota Co., Fla., and was charged with murder, attempted murder, and possession of a firearm as a felon.

Brookins' attorney said his client was acting in self-defense.

Battie was Auburn's primary kick return specialist a year ago, while also providing secondary snaps at the running back position.

He ranked fifth in the SEC with 23 return yards on average and posted 49 yards per kick return on special teams.

Battie ran for 227 yards a year ago on 51 carries and scored a touchdown as Auburn's reserve back.

Before joining Auburn, Battie spent three seasons at USF, being named a consensus All-America selection in 2021 and he earned second-team All-AAC honors the following year when he rushed for 1,186 yards and eight touchdowns.

Battie ran for 1,842 yards and 10 touchdowns at USF before transferring to Auburn.

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