In a period of just over seven months, Penn State’s Curtis Drake suffered broken bones in his lower left leg as a result of two separate incidents. The first one occurred last August and ultimately cost him the entire 2010 season. The second happened in late March of this year and forced him out of the remainder of spring practice, as well as casting doubt as to his availability for all or parts of the 2011 season.
A handful of weeks ahead of the start of summer camp, however, all the medical signs are pointing to a return sooner rather than later for the Nittany Lions wide receiver.
Speaking to the Patriot-News, Drake said that he could be medically cleared to participate shortly after the start of summer camp, with the obvious implication being he could/should be ready for the start of the 2011 regular season.
Barring any setbacks, of course, the thought of which Drake really isn’t in the mood to entertain.
“We’re not looking for any setbacks,” said Drake. “We’re just trying to take as much time as possible to heal and then go from there. I probably won’t do anything until camp starts.”
As a true freshman in 2009, Drake caught eight passes for 98 yards, and also threw a touchdown pass.