Fifth-year senior has made the transition from defensive line to tight end and will add depth and experience to the squad’s young group at the position … dropped nearly 30 pounds in the offseason to assist with the move from defense to offense … could also play a significant role on special teams.

2011: Saw action in four games (home contests versus North Carolina A&T, Savannah State, Samford and Western Carolina) … made two tackles in home-opening win over N.C. A&T.

2010: Appeared in six games ... recorded first career tackle at Samford ... was in on a tackle for loss late in ASU’s SoCon title-clinching 43-13 rout over No. 4 Wofford.

2009: Saw action in two games (vs. N.C. Central and Georgia Southern) ... did not record any statistics.

2008: Redshirted.

High School: Was named Swansboro’s most-improved player, top linebacker and Ironman Award winner in 2007 ... despite playing just two years of varsity football, earned all-conference recognition and was a Shrine Bowl candidate after tallying 60 tackles and nine sacks as a senior ... coached by Tim Laspada ... also earned three varsity letters in track and field.

Personal: Full name is Nicolo Antonio Canepa ... born June 26, 1990 (22 years old) ... son of Mario Canepa ... father is retired from the United States Marine Corps ... majoring in criminal justice with minors in psychology and political science  ... is a Dean’s List honoree ... aspires for a career in federal law enforcement.