Former Detroit Lions running back Jahvid Best’s career cut short due to concussions, but concussions don’t suppress speed…
Best has qualified for the 2016 Olympics in Rio, where he will compete in the 100-meter dash. He secured his spot by meeting the Olympic qualifying standard of 10.16 seconds or faster.
After being highly touted coming out of college, Best only spent 2 years in the NFL and with the Lions, and will now wear the jersey of Saint Lucia in Rio due to his fathers dual citizenship.
Best spoke to NBC about the accomplishment:
“A couple of years ago my lifetime dream was crushed. I was devastated, but I never stop dreaming and believing in myself … This is a huge accomplishment for me, but at the same time this is just the beginning. I have only been in this sport for two years professionally, and plan on being around for a long time. ”
Best is the 2nd former NFL-er to compete in the Olympics (Herschel Walker, Bobsled) and the first to compete in the summer games after playing in the league.
