San Jose State football player in coma after accident

San Jose State defensive lineman Kyane Schmidt, a redshirt freshman from Valley Christian High in San Jose, remains in a coma after suffering a major brain injury in a car accident near Santa Barbara last week, according to his family.

The 6-foot-3, 228-pound Schmidt was thrown from his vehicle after he was in a single car rollover accident on Highway 101 in Goleta last Wednesday. He was in a deep coma when he was transported to nearby Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital. Although his condition has stabilized, doctors said Kyane (pronounced “Cane”) will remain in a coma for multiple weeks.

In addition to his head injury, Schmidt also suffered two fractured ribs and minor internal bleeding, according to a CaringBridge page his family set up. Schmidt is also battling pneumonia, which is a frequent occurrence for those suffering head trauma.

“He’s going to need to fight ... we believe in him,” said Schmidt’s mother, Audrey Huffman, who also posted her son continues to show encouraging signs during his recovery.

There’s been an outpouring of love and support for Schmidt and his family from San Jose State’s players, coaches and fans.

“This young man needs our love and support!!! We are with you Kyane!! We love you! Keep fighting!!,” Spartans coach Brent

Brennan tweeted.

Schmidt, who was a walk-on last year for the Spartans, was a first team All-West Catholic Athletic League offensive lineman in 2018 as well as an honorable mention on the Bay Area News Group’s all-star team. He redshirted in 2019 while being switched to the defensive line.