Detroit Lions: Six worst first-round draft picks of all-time
By Bob Heyrman
Jahvid Best
The Detroit Lions took a chance on the speedy runner coming out of Cal, selecting the 5’9 big-play threat with the 30th pick in the 2010 NFL Draft.
The Lions had been desperate to add a dynamic threat in the backfield. Jahvid Best was just that. In fact, later after football, Best proved he indeed had extraordinary speed as he competed at the 2016 Summer Olympics representing Saint Lucia.
Best entered the NFL Draft coming off of a lengthy string of injuries that included both elbow and foot surgeries. He also suffered a concussion during his final year at Cal. It’s football; concussions happen especially back then before the league put in the necessary precautions we have today.
The first-round pick ended up only playing in 22 games with the Detroit Lions, starting just 15. Best galloped for 945 yards on 255 carries, good for 3.7 yards per carry and totaled six rushing touchdowns.
Best chipped in with 85 catches compiling 774 receiving yards and three touchdowns. Best captured nearly 71% of his targets. His 9.1 yards per reception proved his worth as a complete back.
Jahvid suffered a concussion during the 2011 preseason, and again during week six of the regular season-ending his short-lived professional career. It’s a shame it came to an end so early, but his limited career production earns him a spot as one of the worst Detroit Lions draft picks in franchise history.