USC running back Stafon Johnson underwent emergency surgery on Monday after a weight bar fell on his neck while he was bench pressing. He is listed in critical, but stable condition according to the L.A. Times.

Johnson, who starred at Dorsey High, was just starting a set of bench-press lifts near the end of a midmorning workout when he apparently lost control of the bar and it landed on his neck, Coach Pete Carroll said.

Johnson reportedly spit up blood through his mouth and nose.

Reserve quarterback Garrett Green and fullback Stanley Havili did not see the accident, but both said they saw Johnson sitting quietly as he awaited the paramedics.

Surgery began about 2 p.m., according to family friend John Eatman, a former high school teammate of Johnson’s.

Eatman was among about a dozen friends and family members gathered at the hospital Monday evening.

“Right now we don’t know anything,” Eatman said outside the hospital. “We’re just hoping he’s all right.”

This is a sad story. It was an accident and fortunately for Johnson, he had a spotter and the paramedics were able to rush him to the hospital.

Hopefully Johnson is okay and he has a quick recovery.