I wrote a story about safety Zac Etheridge's return to the Auburn athletic complex for today's newspaper. Here's how it starts:

AUBURN, Ala. — His neck locked into place by a cumbersome brace, safety Zac Etheridge walked into the Auburn athletic complex Tuesday, just three days after a serious injury left him briefly paralyzed on the Jordan-Hare Stadium field.

After an emotional reunion with teammates, he sat in front of a media throng, gracious and eager to respond to the myriad text messages, e-mails and prayers he had received from fans and well-wishers the previous 72 hours.

“I want the world to know that I’m fine,” Etheridge said.

Etheridge tore ligaments in his neck and cracked his fifth vertebra trying to make a tackle against Ole Miss on Saturday. He hasn’t had surgery but will have to wear the neck harness 24 hours a day for three to four months.

Auburn’s medical staff is optimistic Etheridge will make a full recovery, although his football-playing future remains uncertain. The junior hopes to play again.

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