Browns' Jason Pinkston not cleared to practice

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.