DL Mark Scarpinato puts the pads back on to join the Panthers

Published Apr. 30, 2015 1:49 p.m. ET

foxsports

Former Michigan State defensive lineman Mark Scarpinato has experienced a change of heart.

After winning the 2014 Rose Bowl with the Spartans, Scarpinato walked away from the game to pursue a medical career. Now, Mike Griffith of MLive.com reports, the D-lineman has decided to resurrect his football career — as a Pittsburgh Panther.

"I realized I couldn't let go without giving it this last run," Scarpinato told MLive.com.

The 6-foot-3, 279-pound Scarpinato told Griffith that the football aspect of his decision was secondary to the academic aspect, but his connection to Pitt is obvious. Head coach Pat Narduzzi was his defensive coordinator at Michigan State.

(h/t MLive.com)