Being the team leader means making the ultimate sacrifice. University of South Carolina (USC) Trojans cornerback Josh Shaw proved that and more on Saturday when he saved a nephew from drowning but in the process injured both of his ankles after jumping from the second floor of a building to rescue the child.

"I would do it again for whatever kid it was, it did not have to be my nephew," Shaw said via USCTrojans.com. "My ankles really hurt, but I am lucky to be surrounded by the best trainers and doctors in the world. I am taking my rehab one day at a time, and I hope to be back on the field as soon as possible."

Earlier Saturday night, Shaw was appointed as the team captain of the Trojans and he promptly proved that the leadership role was destined for him with the heroic act of saving his nephew.

His head coach at USC, Steve Sarkisian took note of the sacrifice and was positive that Shaw will be able to recover from the injury as did his father, James, who was not surprise of his son’s actions.

"That was a heroic act by Josh, putting his personal safety aside. But that's the kind of person he is. It is unfortunate that he'll be sidelined for a while and we will miss his leadership and play, but I know he'll be working hard to get back on the field as soon as possible,” Sarkisian said.

According to the same school website, Shaw’s nephew was a bit traumatized but was safe from harm.

Shaw’s supporters, fans and other college football players were appreciative of his act as they took to Twitter to admire the heroic act.

Wow My old friend Josh Shaw saved his nephew by jumping off a balcony and injuring himself Wouldn't expect anything less from a great person

— Jeff Driskel (@jeffdriskel) August 26, 2014

Prayers go out to Josh Shaw and his family. Josh is a fantastic human being and his actions are no surprise to those who know him. #USC — Gerard Martinez (@gmartlive) August 25, 2014

Never met josh shaw from USC but I got nothing but respect for what he did and to sacrifice his health for a family member that's real.

— Kapron Lewis-Moore (@KLM_89) August 26, 2014

Shaw played for University of South Carolina and Florida the last three years with 119 tackles, 14 deflections and 6 interceptions in 22 games. The 6-foot-1 cornerback is considered one of the most versatile defensive backs in college football.

Without Josh Shaw, the Trojans will open the college football season against Fresno State this coming Saturday. USC will most likely use freshmen Chris Hawkins or Adoree’ Jackson as Shaw’s replacement in the starting line-up.