Is Pitt's Deaysean Rippy still considering a transfer?

It's been a heck of a week for Pitt head coach Paul Chryst. Chryst lost defensive lineman Terrell Jackson to a transfer and star running back Rushel Shell is reportedly considering one while he takes a break from the football program. Somewhat lost in the news was that linebacker Deaysean Rippy is apparently considering a transfer as well.

When Pitt landed Rippy at the last minute as part of their 2012 class, it was considered a huge victory. Rippy was a local four-star recruit who decided on Pitt fairly late in the game, despite all the turmoil at the time. Now only a year later, Rippy could be on his way out. The Trib's Jerry DiPaola says that some around him aren't encouraging it, though, so I suppose that's a good thing.

But unlike Shell, Rippy staying doesn't seem like a long shot. For one thing, he's still practicing with the team, having shown up for the last one on Thursday. If he were sure he were leaving, it'd be hard to see him still out there practicing with a team that he won't impact.

The good news is that Pitt has some quality young linebackers in addition to Rippy including Bam Bradley, Mike Caprara, and Ejuan Price. Still, I'd rather see him stick around to provide as much competition as possible. Rippy, though, no doubt wants to play.

I know Rippy redshirted last year even with a fairly weak linebacking corps and isn't slated to start this season, but his would be a big loss. He's still got a lot of eligibility and will have plenty of time to make his mark.

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