Fresno State athletic director Thomas Boeh made the decision after an appeals process, when Shirley presented medical evidence that persuaded the school to allow him to finish his senior season. The Fresno State medical staff approved Shirley's return to the team yesterday, Boeh said.

"These past five games that Jason has missed represent a sufficient penalty in this particular case," Boeh said. "We now look forward to working with Jason to help ensure he will earn his undergraduate degree and finish his collegiate football career."

Shirley has been suspended since Oct. 9, a day after the 330-pound tackle was arrested after crashing his car into an apartment building. Police said Shirley left the scene of the accident, and had a blood-alcohol level of 0.12, above the legal limit of 0.08.

Shirley already served a two-game suspension in September for undisclosed conduct detrimental to the team. He then played in three games before his arrest, recording four tackles for losses, two sacks and a forced fumble.