The Detroit Lions on Wednesday released running back Jahvid Best, according to USA Today Sports. Best's history of concussions kept him sidelined since October 2011.
"I want to thank the Detroit Lions organization for drafting me and giving me an opportunity to fulfill my dream and play in the National Football League," Best said in a statement, according to USA Today Sports. "My time as a member of the Lions was a very special time in my life. My teammates, the members of the organization, the Lions fans and the people of Detroit will hold a special place in my heart. I'll always be a Lion."
"Jahvid is as fine a person and professional as I have ever worked with," Lions general manager Martin Mayhew said in a statement, according to USA Today Sports. "He was the consummate teammate and always did everything asked of him. We wish Jahvid the very best in all his future endeavors and have no doubt that he will be successful in whatever path he chooses."
The speedy back played in only 22 games for Detroit after the team selected him 30th overall in the 2010 NFL draft. The Lions saw Best as a dangerous weapon for quarterback Matthew Stafford, but it never came to fruition.
Best suffered at least one concussion during his college career at California. He then sustained two more concussions in 2011, the last happening against the San Francisco 49ers on Oct. 16.
Doctors declined to clear Best, and he missed the whole 2012 season.
Best's short career with the Lions saw him rush for 945 yards on 255 carries (3.7 yard average) and six touchdowns; he also caught 85 passes for 774 yards and three touchdowns.
