Jahvid Best has not given up on a return to the Detroit Lions even though it’s been a year and a half since the running back last played.

  Best is in Baltimore for Monday night’s Ed Block Courage Awards dinner representing the Lions.

 "It's tough. I don't know what the future is going to hold for me. It's been about a year and a half now, but I'm still working out like I'm playing next week,’’ Best told the Baltimore Sun. “... I am never giving up hope. I'm staying ready so if the opportunity does present itself, I'll be ready."

  Best sustained a concussion in a game on Oct. 16, 2011, and has not been cleared to play since. He participated in the Lions organized team activities last spring because it’s a non-contact situation and he had been cleared for that.

  The Lions had hoped he’d be ready for training camp last July, but Best was never cleared.

  He works out regularly and is still on the Lions’ roster.

   General manager Martin Mayhew said one of his biggest offseason mistakes prior to the 2012 season was counting on the return of Best.

 He’s learned his lesson. Last week the Lions signed Reggie Bush to fill Best’s role.

 (Follow @PaulaPasche on Twitter. Order her new book,  “100 Things Lions Fans Should Know & Do Before They Die’’ here. It’s also available at bookstores.)