Gleaton Jones, a former walk-on running back for the Georgia Bulldogs, is in critical condition after a Dec. 10 car accident during a hunting trip on St. George Island in Florida. He suffered a severe brain injury and had to undergo emergency surgery to relieve the swelling. Jones remains hospitalized in the intensive care unit.

Jones joined the Georgia football program in 2021 after an impressive high school career at Deerfield-Windsor School in Albany, where he earned All-State, All-Region and All-Albany honors. As a freshman, Jones was part of the Bulldogs’ historic 2021 College Football Playoff National Championship team.

In addition to his time on the football field, Jones was involved in track and basketball throughout high school and retained presidential honors throughout his academic career before coming to Georgia.

The accident sparked widespread support in the Georgia soccer community and the Albany, Georgia area. Porterfield Methodist Church, where the Jones family is active members, held a prayer service Dec. 11 attended by friends and community members. The church also made its sanctuary available for private prayers.

Encouraging messages also poured in on social media, with Georgia fans and teammates expressing their support for Jones and his family. Some community members have also inquired about ways to help the family with medical costs.

Porterfield Methodist Church coordinates requests to provide financial assistance. Updates on Jones’ condition will be provided by the family as they become available.

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Correction: An earlier version of this story misstated Jones’ age. The Red-Blacks regret this mistake and have now corrected it.