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CLEMSON, S.C. (AP) -- Clemson coach Dabo Swinney's biggest thrill Wednesday came as he watched the national letter of intent roll in from a linebacker who'll likely never make a tackle for the Tigers.

Swinney's group of 23 signees included Jake Nicolopulos of Anderson, whose dream of playing college football ended in December when he suffered a stroke.

Nicolopulos couldn't talk, walk or write after major surgery to relieve pressure on his brain. Nearly two months later, he improved enough to sign his letter and speak with Swinney.

"When I saw that fax come through, it brought a smile to my face," Swinney said.

Nicolopulos' father, Craig, told The Associated Press by phone Wednesday that his son has finished his first stage of rehab and began the next one at the Pathways Center in Atlanta.

"It was a glorious day for Jake and us," Craig said.

The Tigers will honor Nicolopulos' scholarship and find a role for him with the program, like the school did for former linebacker Scotty Cooper and offensive lineman J.K. Jay. Cooper was forced to give up football because of seizures. Jay had a back injury that left him at risk for more serious injuries if he continued playing.

OL FU wrote:With the class that Swinney shows and the fact that Napier is the OC, I might have to become a Clemson fan.

bobbythekidd wrote:

OL FU wrote:With the class that Swinney shows and the fact that Napier is the OC, I might have to become a Clemson fan.

That might be the first time I have ever seen "class" and "Clemson" in the same sentence for any reason.

bobbythekidd wrote:

OL FU wrote:With the class that Swinney shows and the fact that Napier is the OC, I might have to become a Clemson fan.

That might be the first time I have ever seen "class" and "Clemson" in the same sentence for any reason.