Ohio State Football: Defensive End Se'von Pittman Granted Release, Leaving OSU

The first casualty of the 2013 football season came on the opening day of spring practice for Urban Meyer and the Ohio State Buckeyes.

According to Tim May of the Columbus Dispatch, redshirt freshman defensive end Se'von Pittman asked for, and was granted, his release from Ohio State.

"

There's a reason DE Se'von Pittman wasn't at Ohio State spring practice today. He has been granted his release. bit.ly/167epxt

— Tim May (@TIM_MAYsports) March 6, 2013"

Pittman, a former 4-star prospect out of Canton, Ohio, made waves during his recruitment when he flipped from Michigan State to join Meyer's first recruiting class in Columbus. 

Unfortunately for Pittman, he wasn't able to crack a defensive line rotation that included John Simon, Nathan Williams, Steve Miller and a pair of 5-star studs in Adolphus Washington and Noah Spence in 2012.

Despite the fact that Ohio State will be replacing four starters along the defensive line this year, Pittman wanted out of Columbus. Sources told the Columbus Dispatch that Pittman's decision wasn't based on a lack of playing time.

"

Sources told The Dispatch it had to do with an off-the-field issue, and that Pittman was looking for a fresh start. While Pittman could not be reached for comment, sources said he was considering a transfer to Louisville if it can be worked out.

"

The Buckeyes have tremendous depth at defensive end, and it would've taken a huge offseason for Pittman to break the two-deep rotation.

All recruit rankings courtesy of Yahoo Sports.

David Regimbal is the lead Ohio State football writer for Bleacher Report.
Follow him on Twitter @davidreg412.