Brian Battie brain injury update: CFB insider provides latest update on Auburn RB's medical condition

NFL Insider Nathan King provided an update on Auburn running back Brian Battie's brain injury recovery. He shared Brian's family post on X. The family posted on their GoFundMe page that Battie has taken his first steps since the shooting that left him disabled in late May.

The excerpt of the update published on the webpage read:

"I am overjoyed to share an inspiring moment in Brian’s journey. After facing the immense challenge of rehabbing after his type of brain injury, without knowing if Brian would walk again, he has achieved something incredible, Brian took his first steps with a cane!!!!"

"Brian told us weeks ago that he would be on his feet by my birthday and he was taking steps with a cane by Tuesday! He believed he could and he DID!"

During a shooting in his hometown of Sarasota, Florida, in late May, a shot to the head caused Brian Battie's brain injury. Battie's older brother, Tommy Battie IV, died in the incident. Brian Battie was initially put on a ventilator and had little to no chance of recovery.

Darryl Bernard Brookins, a 28-year-old African-American man, was identified as the perpetrator and arrested by the authorities. Brookins has been charged with murder, attempted murder and possession of a firearm. According to the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office, Brookins has four prior felony convictions.

Brian Battie brain injury: Auburn quarterback Payton Thorne wishes a speedy recovery

During the SEC media days, Tigers signal-caller Payton Thorne sent his best wishes and prayers to Brian Battie and his family.

“Still praying for Brian and his family during this time, I know we can’t wait to see him again. I’m sure at some point here, we’ll all see him again at the facility. That’s our hope, and I’ll get to talk to him,” Thorne said on Thursday.

The year 2024 would be Battie's second with the Auburn Tigers. In 2023, he ran for 227 yards with one rushing touchdown. His best year was 2022 when he accrued 1186 rushing yards with eight touchdowns for the South Florida Bulls. In 2021, he was a consensus All-America kick returner.