Washington State Cougars

Miami OL Knighton wins Courage Award after comeback

Published Dec. 18, 2015 5:59 p.m. ET

foxsports

DALLAS (AP) Miami offensive lineman Hunter Knighton, who survived near-fatal heat stroke to return to the team this season, has won the Courage Award, presented by the Orange Bowl and Football Writers Association of America.

Knighton collapsed during conditioning drills in February 2014. He spent 12 days in a coma, lost 55 pounds and underwent surgery to repair paralyzed vocal chords.

The 300-pound sophomore returned to the field this season and played in 12 games as the Hurricanes went 8-4 and earned an invitation to the Sun Bowl. Miami plays Washington State on Dec. 26 in El Paso, Texas.

The FWAA has been handing the Courage Award since 2002. Past winners include Duke offensive lineman Laken Tomlinson (2014), Clemson wide receiver Daniel Rodriguez (2012) and Rutgers defensive tackle Eric LeGrand (2010).