Kyron Drones, who's been fully cleared for about a month after offseason foot surgery, was all smiles at the ACC Kickoff. (Will Stewart)

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — A worsening stress fracture already sapped Kyron Drones of much of his mobility when the Hokies hosted Clemson in early November last year, but the wear and tear in the high-profile contest only made his injury situation worse.