STAFON JOHNSON SCHEDULED TO LEAVE HOSPITAL

Just 16 days after Stafon Johnson's neck was crushed in a weightlifting accident, the USC tailback is heading home. Johnson smiled during a news conference today at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, his first public appearance since the accident. He was scheduled to be released later in the today. Stafon Johnson's mother, Kim Mallory, did not leave her son's side in the 16 days he was at Cedars-Sinai. Wearing a black USC sweatshirt and a red cap with the Trojans' helmet logo, Johnson walked easily through the hospital and exchanged teasing gestures with friends. He also smiled at his mother, Kim Mallory, who hasn't left his side since Johnson accidentally dropped a weight bar on his neck, crushing his throat and larynx.

- Jason