Jahvid Best, the former Detroit Lions running back, became the first NFL player to qualify for the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, after being named to Saint Lucia's track and field team Saturday.
Best will compete in the men's 100-meter event. In May 2015, Best posted a 10.262 time in the 100 meter at the 2016 USA Track and Field Championships in Eugene, Ore.
The 27-year-old was born in Vallejo, Calif., but his father holds dual citizenship with the United States and Saint Lucia.
"This is a huge accomplishment for me, but at the same time this is just the beginning," Best told NBC Sports. "I have only been in this sport for two years professionally, and plan on being around for a long time."
Best also reacted to the news on his Twitter account, posting "Dreams/may will never change. Never stop pursuing them. Above all else never stop believing in yourself."
Best, drafted No. 30 overall in 2010, spent parts of three seasons with the Lions. He rushed for 945 yards and six touchdowns on 255 carries in 22 games.
On July 17, 2013, Best was released by the Lions after sustaining multiple concussions, which sidelined him for the 2012 seasons.
