DETROIT - The Detroit Lions made it official Wednesday and announced the release of concussion-plagued running back Jahvid Best, who had not played in a game 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 released through the team. "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."
Best played in 22 games for the Lions over two seasons since the team traded up in the 2010 draft to select him 30th overall out of California.
He was a dual threat out of the backfield and the kind of explosive weapon the Lions desired in their offense to complement quarterback Matthew Stafford and receiver Calvin Johnson. And he was exactly that for a brief time.
But the epitaph on Best's Lions career will be as the poster child for the NFL's handling of concussions amid raging lawsuits from former players who say the league did not do enough to protect them.
Best entered the NFL having suffered at least one serious concussion during his final season at Cal. In 2011, he suffered two head injuries: one in the exhibition season and one in an Oct. 16 loss to the 49ers that ended his season and ultimately his Lions career.
Doctors didn't clear him for contact and he missed the 2012 season after he was placed on the physically unable to perform list Aug. 27.
Best still counts about $1.1 million against the salary cap this year and next. He has been paid all the money he's owed.
Best finished his Lions career with 945 rushing yards on 255 carries for a 3.7-yard average and six touchdowns. He also had 85 receptions for 774 yards and three TDs.
"Jahvid is as fine a person and professional as I have ever worked with," Lions general manager Martin Mayhew said in a released statement. "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."
Source: http://www.miamiherald.com/2013/07/17/3505512/nfl-dream-ends-for-lions-best.html
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