Lions won't permit RB Jahvid Best (concussion) to play

We still don't know when Best will be cleared to practice. (US Presswire)

Javhid Best suffered two concussions in the first six weeks of 2011, and after going on the IR list in the middle of last season, he still hasn't been cleared to play.

Six weeks into his stay on the Physically Unable to Perform list in 2012, there was some talk about whether the Lions would allow Best to begin practicing for the chance to get activated. On Monday, the Lions said no.

Said Detroit general manager Martin Mayhew in a statement:

"After today's consultation with medical experts, including representatives from our medical and training staffs, it has been determined that Jahvid will not be permitted to return to play at this time.

"Throughout this entire process we always have placed the highest priority on what is best for Jahvid from a health and safety standpoint. While today's decision is disappointing from a football perspective, we fully and entirely respect and support this recommendation.

"Jahvid will continue to work with our medical and training staffs with the hope that he ultimately will be cleared to return to the playing field."

This doesn't necessarily mean Best is done for the season. The Lions now have 21 days to decide if he can be activated. If not, he'll be placed on IR again and look ahead to the 2013 season. Which is likely at this point.

“Like I said the only thing I'm worried about is doing everything I can to get cleared,'' Best said, late in July. “Once I get cleared, I'll be back there.”

But this is a concerning situation, considering Best suffered his last concussion 364 days ago and he's still not ready to play. Best was asked a few months ago if he was thinking about retirement.

“That has not crossed my mind yet,” he said.

For more NFL news, rumors and analysis, follow @EyeOnNFL on Twitter, and subscribe to our Pick-6 Podcast and NFL newsletter. You can follow Josh Katzowitz on Twitter here: @joshkatzowitz.