Allen Park, Mich.— The Detroit Lions announced today that they have released RB Jahvid Best.
Best played in 22 games (15 starts) for the Lions after being drafted by the team in the first round (30th overall) of the 2010 NFL Draft. He saw action in all 16 games as a rookie in 2010, but was limited to only six games in 2011. Best was placed on Physically Unable to Perform on August 27, 2012 and missed the duration of the 2012 season.
“Jahvid is as fine a person and professional as I have ever worked with,” Lions Executive Vice-President of Football Operations and General Manager Martin Mayhew said. “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.”
“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. “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.”
In his two seasons with Detroit, Best totaled 945 rushing yards on 255 carries (3.7 avg) and six touchdowns, as well as 85 receptions for 774 yards (9.1 avg) and three touchdowns. His 88-yard touchdown run in the third quarter against the Bears on Monday Night Football (10/10) in 2011 ranks as the second-longest rush in franchise history.
In 2012, Best was selected as the recipient of the NFL’s Ed Block Courage Award, which recognizes players who overcome setbacks during their football careers.
