Skip to main content

Detroit Lions' Martin Mayhew 'disappointed' about Jahvid Best

Usually guarded Detroit Lions general manager Martin Mayhew on Tuesday expressed disappointment that running Jahvid Best has yet to be cleared for practice because of past concussions.

Coaches Film, only on NFL.com

Purchase NFL Game Rewind and receive access to Coaches Film, which includes camera angles previously only available to coaches, scouts and officials.

"I'm a little bit surprised, a little bit disappointed," Mayhew admitted. "Everything was trending toward him being ready to go the first day of training camp."

Best had a season-ending concussion during Week 6 against the San Francisco 49ers -- his second of the year and at least his third overall -- and seemed to be making progress during the offseason.

Like the Lions, Best isn't pleased that he's being held out by doctors despite not having any obvious concussion symptoms.

"It's definitely frustrating," he said.

The Lions are counting on Best to help strike a balance with their stellar passing game led by quarterback Matthew Stafford and receiver Calvin Johnson.

Best rushed the ball 84 times in six games last season for 390 yards and two touchdowns. He also had 27 receptions for 287 yards and one touchdown.

The former first-round draft pick is known as an explosive and nimble runner. In limited action last season, Best was able to break off an 88-yard run and a 60-yard catch.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.