THIBODAUX, La. – Nicholls State University football head coach Charlie Stubbs announced that linebacker Dwayne Mitchell has signed a scholarship to play football for the Colonels for the upcoming 2012 season.

Mitchell (New Orleans, La./ Edna Karr) will have three years of eligibility remaining after playing as a redshirt freshman for the University of Minnesota last season. The 6-foot-2, 215-pound linebacker spent most of his time contributing to special teams, while also serving a limited role as a linebacker.

Before joining the Gophers, Mitchell prepped at Edna Karr with current Nicholls cornerback Brian Lewis, helping lead the Cougars to an 11-2 record and an appearance in the third round of the state playoffs in 2009. A two-time Class 4A All-State honoree, Mitchell left Edna Karr with the career record in sacks (28).

With the addition of Mitchell, the Colonel 2012 signing class stands at 22.