Jahvid Best: 'I'm doing everything I can to get back'

After earning the Ed Block Courage Award at Tuesday night's banquet, Detroit Lions running back Jahvid Best told Tim Twentyman of DetroitLions.com that he is going to do everything in his power to get back on the field next season.

"It doesn't matter how long it takes me, as long as my body is fresh, then I’m going to stay ready to play," Best said. "If they give me a chance, and they say it’s safe for me to play, then I’ll be out there. I’m doing everything I can to get back."

Unable to gain clearance from doctors due to a series of concussions he suffered over the last few years at both the college and pro levels, the 23-year-old Best has not played in a game since Oct. 16 of last season. The No. 30 overall selection in the 2010 NFL Draft, he has now missed 21 out of a possible 27 games since suiting up for all 16 regular season contests as a rookie.

Still an extremely explosive weapon with the ball in his hands, Best's track record for concussions will certainly make it difficult for the Lions to feel confident with him in a full-contact situation in the near future. The hesitation for doctors to allow him back on the field is quite telling in this case as well, and while it would be a serious boost for the Lions to have him back in 2013, it's hardly a guarantee at this point.