BATON ROUGE, La., Feb. 11 (UPI) -- LSU defensive end Kirston Pittman was granted a sixth-year of eligibility on Monday by the NCAA.
Pittman missed both the 2005 and 2006 seasons while battling foot and ankle injuries. He applied for an extension in early January. After reviewing his documentation, the NCAA granted the additional year of eligibility.
"Kirston is very deserving of this ruling after what he's been through as far as injuries are concerned during his LSU career," LSU Coach Les Miles said. "He's very fortunate that there's a good rule in place that allows a guy who has missed extensive time with injuries the opportunity to get a year back."
Pittman saw action in 13 games as a true freshman during LSU's run to the national title in 2003. He then played in 12 games as a sophomore in 2004 before missing all of 2005 and 2006.
He returned to action in 2007 to again help lead the Tigers to a national title. Pittman started all 14 games for LSU this past season, leading the team with eight sacks and 13 1/2 tackles for loss. Pittman also had 68 tackles to go with 14 quarterback hurries and an interception.
