In the baby steps of Clint Sellers’ rehab, the senior linebacker being physically able to return to daily steps is a big leap forward.

“I’m excited that he’s been able to return to a normal life more than anything,” Eastern defensive coordinator Roc Bellantoni said. “I don’t care if he ever plays another down for us again.”

Sellers injured the brachial plexus bundle that connects the ligaments in the right shoulder to the spinal cord. The senior linebacker said he has regained the feeling and use of his right arm and the back pain has been slighted alleviated.

“It doesn’t bother me as much anymore and I’m getting better everyday,” Sellers said.

The Panthers have been without the 2005 Ohio Valley Conference Defensive Player of the Year for the first three weeks of the season and he will not play against Samford.

“He was so down lately saying my season is over and my career is gone,” Bellantoni said. “The fact that he’s bouncing around and more positive is great.”

The toughest part for Sellers was being on the sidelines for the Indiana State and last Saturday’s loss at Illinois State.

“I’d strap my arm up and play this week if they’d let me,” Sellers said. “I want to help this team so bad.”

The rehab program for Sellers conducted by the Eastern training staff has included range of motion drills with the purpose being to keep the joints in the shoulder active.

“I’ve been working with the trainers and doctors every day along with receiving massages and been going to a chiropractor,” Sellers said.

According to NCAA rules, in order to receive a sixth-year of eligibility, which would ultimately allow the Panthers to give Sellers a medical redshirt, the player must have been redshirted due to health reasons. Sellers was redshirted previously at North Iowa Area Community College because of an injury.

“I think that gives us a solid case and all we’d have to do at that point is fill out the paperwork,” Bellantoni said.