Linebacker returning for sixth year of eligibility

Pitt linebacker Adam Gunn was granted a sixth year of eligibility yesterday after suffering a… Pitt linebacker Adam Gunn was granted a sixth year of eligibility yesterday after suffering a season-ending neck injury last season. Gunn, who was carried off the field on a stretcher during Pitt’s opening-day loss against Bowling Green, will be evaluated this month by doctors to see if he’s cleared to play. Because of the severity of his injury, it’s not certain whether he’ll be physically able. ‘We are, in the foremost, concerned with Adam’s long-term health and well-being,’ said Pitt coach Dave Wannstedt in a statement released by the school. Gunn returned last season as the starting linebacker and as the team’s third-leading tackler during the 2008 season, starting alongside Scott McKillop and Shane Murray before being injured. Pitt loses McKillop to graduation, but returns Murray, who sat out the majority of last season with a knee injury. Greg Williams, a sophomore next season, replaced Gunn after his injury and will likely contribute significant time regardless of whether Gunn plays. Spring practice begins on March 19 for Pitt and will conclude during its annual Blue-Gold Game on April 11 at Heinz Field.