Offensive lineman Chad Wheeler returns from concussion

USC's Chad Wheeler clutches his knee in pain after being injured against Utah last season.

Staff Writer

Aug. 26, 2015 2:14 PM PT

Offensive lineman Chad Wheeler returned to full participation in practice Wednesday, having been cleared for a concussion and also his surgically repaired right knee.

Wheeler sufferred the concussion last week when he was accidentally hit in the head with a medicine ball.

“Oddest injury I’ve ever been subject to,” he said.

Wheeler, a fourth-year junior, said he was on the practice field and “just walked in the way” before he was accidentally hit in the temple. He said he was not wearing his helmet at the time.

“I didn’t see it coming,” he said.

Wheeler said he could not remember who was tossing the ball.

Wheeler had knee surgery after he was injured during the Trojans’ Oct. 25, 2014, loss at Utah. He was limited during training camp but was cleared for live contact drills on Tuesday.

“I felt good,” he said after the Trojans’ workout Wednesday. “I just have to get in better shape.”

Wheeler said he would be ready for the Trojans’ Sept. 5 opener against Arkansas State.

Sophomore Toa Lobendahn has been playing left tackle in Wheeler’s place.