TOM WITHERS
AP Sports Writer

BEREA, Ohio (AP) — The Browns say offensive guard Jason Pinkston has not been medically cleared to practice.

The team and Pinkston’s agents released a joint statement Monday saying the four-year veteran has been in communication with the Browns. The team says it will respect Pinkston’s privacy and not provide further details “at this time.”

Pinkston started 16 games as a rookie in 2011. The next year he was sidelined with blood clots in his lungs, threatening his career.

The fifth-round draft pick from Pittsburgh played only three games last season because of an ankle injury.

On Sunday, first-year coach Mike Pettine said there was a “possibility” Pinkston will return to the team. Pinkston said on Twitter he has not considered retiring.

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