DETROIT — The Detroit Lions have a host of issues at running back.
Backkup Jerome Harrison has a brain tumor, according to an ESPN report. The network based its reports on two NFL sources it did not identify.
The Lions tried to trade Harrison to Philadelphia on Tuesday, but the deal was voided for unspecified reasons. The Lions listed Harrison as having an “illness” that held him out of Thursday’s practice.
“It’s a privacy issue and I’m not going to comment on it,” Lions coach Jim Schwartz said. “He’s back on our 53-man roster.”
Harrison’s agent, Mitch Frankel, did not return phone and email messages.
Detroit wanted to trade Harrison to Philadelphia for Ronnie Brown and a draft pick because it needs help in the backfield following Best’s third concussion last Sunday in a loss to San Francisco.
Starter Jahvid Best is out with a concussion,
Schwartz will only say that Best will play when he’s given medical clearance. Lions offensive coordinator Scott Linehan said he “certainly” expects the speedy, second-year pro to be on the field again this season
Around the league
• SAINTS: New Orleans tight end Jimmy Graham, who leads the team in receiving, missed Thursday’s practice with a sore right ankle. Graham has 39 catches for 620 yards and three touchdowns, and last week became only the second tight end to have four straight games in the same season with 100 yards or more receiving, matching the feat accomplished by Tony Gonzalez in 2000.
• DOLPHINS: Receiver Brandon Marshall (quadriceps) and running back Reggie Bush (groin) returned to practice after sitting out one day with injuries as Miami prepares to host Denver on Sunday.
• BROWNS: Cleveland starting linebacker Scott Fujita is unlikely to play Sunday against Seattle after being sent home before practice for the second straight day with post-concussion symptoms. Fujita was injured in last Sunday’s game at Oakland.
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