'Skins' Lefotu 'doing much better'

Lineman who collapsed in his room Wednesday could be released from hospital today.

Date published: 8/11/2006

By ADAM HIMMELSBACH

ASHBURN--Redskins rookie offensive lineman Kili Lefotu, who was hospitalized Wednesday night after losing consciousness in his dorm room, could be released fromVirginia Hospital Center in Arlington today, Redskins director of sports medicine Bubba Tyer said.

"He's doing much better today," Tyer said. "He feels good. He's talking."

Tyer said Lefotu was not at the field for the Wednesday evening practice, and the Redskins sent security personnel to the National Conference Center, where the players are staying during training camp.

Lefotu had already called the operator at the NCC and said he was ill, and the operator called 911, Tyer said. Lefotu was conscious when a rescue team arrived, but lost consciousness soon after. Lefotu's roommate, Manaia Brown, had been released from the team earlier Wednesday, so he was not in the room.

Lefotu was rushed to Loudoun County Hospital before being transferred to Virginia Hospital Center yesterday.

Tyer said Lefotu may have suffered a seizure, but will not know until he receives the results from medical tests. Lefotu had no history of medical problems and had passed his physical, Tyer said.

"He wasn't any worse off than the other guys in regard to the heat," Tyer said. "He wasn't one of the guys who had to IV earlier. It wasn't related to heat."

The Redskins selected Lefotu in the seventh round of this year's NFL draft. The native of Hawaii started 37 games during his career at the University of Arizona.

Cornerback Ade Jimoh injured his sternum when he was hit in the chest by running back Rock Cartwright earlier this week. Tyer said Jimoh will be out for at least a week.

Wide receiver Taylor Jacobs (strained groin) missed practice yesterday.

Jacobs' four-year career has been mired by injury, as he's started just seven games.

"You can't fault him for training," Redskins coach Joe Gibbs said. "He's probably one of the best trained guys here."

To reach ADAM HIMMELSBACH: 540/374-5442
Email: ahimmelsbach@freelancestar.com

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Date published: 8/11/2006