Nathan Merritt's sister says the South Sydney great's condition is "improving slightly", with the 40-year-old remaining in a Sydney hospital.
Merritt was rushed to Royal Prince Alfred Hospital on Friday and placed on life support after he was found unresponsive at his aunt's residence.
The former Rabbitoh is believed to have had an adverse reaction to prescribed pain-killers.
Merritt's sister Teanne posted on Facebook on Tuesday afternoon to say the family had received somewhat positive news on the winger's condition.
"We have been advised that Nathan is improving slightly but has a long road to recovery," Teanne Merritt posted.
"We thank everyone, family and friends that have come up to visit Nathan and all the well wishes and kind words from all."
A cult hero at the Rabbitohs, Merritt scored 154 tries in 237 NRL games and remains equal-12th on the league's all-time try-scoring lists.
He retired from the NRL in 2014, but played in the Koori Knockout on the NSW Central Coast earlier this month.
"We are so happy to hear directly from his immediate family that Merro's condition is improving," Souths posted on social media on Wednesday.
"He is being looked after by the best medical practitioners, and he is in the thoughts of everyone connected to the Rabbitohs.
"It will be a slow recovery, but it's a battle he's in with all of our support.
"Keep fighting hard with that South Sydney spirit, Merro! You're always a Rabbitoh! #974"
