Jason Berryman has been in the news once again, now because he is being allowed to practice with the team after being released from jail.

Head coach Dan McCarney told the Daily that Berryman is being given a chance to earn a spot back on the team, despite his various indiscretions.

There are different ways to look at this situation.

First, looking solely at raw talent and potential, Berryman would almost certainly be a terrific re-addition to the team. Clearly he was one of the best defensive linemen the Cyclones had two seasons ago, and with the physical (and hopefully mental) maturation of almost two years, this would make him an even more outstanding presence for the defensive front-four. McCarney seemed somewhat ambiguous as to whether or not he would allow Berryman to make the team.

I can’t blame him. Coach McCarney has been put in an awkward situation — one of his primary goals is to win and Berryman could almost certainly help the team win. McCarney does not want to look like he’s facilitating delinquent athletes, however.

As a fan, one might be less torn. Berryman has shown outstanding athleticism, and the ability to put pressure on opposing quarterbacks will be essential if the Cyclones hope to contend for the Big-12 North title. Although it is certainly unsavory to have players who have been less-than-model citizens playing for your team, as has been the case for many college and pro teams, most fans seem willing enough to embrace talent over character. Although I don’t care for a player with a mean streak outside the game, I don’t consider Berryman’s crimes worthy of removal from the team.

Conversely, an ISU student could be less torn on the matter, but in the other direction. I would assume most people don’t want a person with a criminal record for violence on campus.

If history is any indication, players who transfer schools because of discipline problems can still be successful, and it would be an ugly scenario if Berryman ripped off 12 sacks for the Hawkeyes next season. This Cyclone fan says give Berryman the chance to earn his roster spot, and then keep him on a short leash.