Justin Hargrove was one of the early big commits for Pitt last year. Now, because of a head injury that was diagnosed as a brain contusion he suffered last fall, he will be one of the last of the recruits to get on the practice field with Pitt.

But a lingering injury has changed Hargrove’s figurative shirt color to gray. He will take what is commonly referred to as a grayshirt and enroll full-time at Pitt in the spring semester. That will allow ample time to heal from a severe head injury.

After the grayshirt, Hargrove will be permitted back on the field. Doctors have surmised that will be enough time for him to fully recover.

“This is the best situation for me, definitely,” said Hargrove, 6 feet 4, 245-pounds. “Just from all aspects, it makes the most sense. I’ll be able to learn the system in the next few months and that will be a big key for when I’m able to get back out there.”

I’m kind of surprised that he just didn’t do a medical redshirt for his freshman year, and get a head start on the academics and at least be a part of the strength and conditioning. The cynical and suspicious part of me wonders if they aren’t still downplaying the extent of the injury and risk to Hargrove.

This is an injury to the head. Concussion or contusion means a big level of uncertainty as to when or if ever a player can come back to playing football.

Hopefully, I’m wrong and Hargrove will completely recover and safely (as safe as anyone can be) play football for Pitt in 2007.