SAN JOSE — San Jose State linebacker Jared Leaf remains in critical condition as he recovers from second-degree burns suffered in an apartment fire last week.

His family released a statement Monday through San Jose State expressing their appreciation for the outpouring of support.

“On behalf of Jared’s family, we would like to express our sincere gratitude to all of those who have touched our lives in recent days.

“We would especially like to acknowledge the absolutely amazing staff at the Santa Clara Valley Medical Burn Center. Their passion and optimism along with positive feedback and forthcoming information and accommodation has made us feel included in the process. We feel very fortunate that Jared is in their care.

“We would also like to thank the Coaching Staff at SJSU, who have been here everyday to support Jared and our family. Their genuine concern and positive encouragement are extremely appreciated. Jared’s teammates have been a great sense of support, as well, visiting our family often and showing their love for Jared.

“Jared is still in critical condition and due to the risk of infection, he is not accepting visitors other than immediate family at this point in time.

“Jared has a long road ahead of him, but we are confident he will recover with all of the continued support of family, friends, the SJSU community and the wonderful staff that are working so hard to make sure his recovery is successful.

“To show support and view updates please visit www.facebook.com/teamleaf11.”

The school is still going through the process of gaining NCAA approval for a relief fund to assist with Leaf’s medical bills. Those who wish to offer support to the family in the meantime can do so via the Facebook page or by contacting Hannah Perkins at hperk5@yahoo.com.

For more on San Jose State athletics, visit the SpartanCentral blog at blogs.mercurynews.com/sjsu. Follow Jimmy Durkin on Twitter at Twitter.com/Jimmy_Durkin.