Nate Burleson practices, on track to return
Detroit Lions wide receiver Nate Burleson (13) runs with ball as Washington Redskins safety Brandon Meriweather (31) defends during the first half at FedEX Field. Mandatory Credit: Brad Mills-USA TODAY Sports
Detroit Lions wide receiver Nate Burleson is expected to make his return this week after breaking his arm following Week 3 in a bizarre car accident that involved pizza. The incident was well-document, and Burleson’s return will be just as well-received by Lions fans. According to Lions official site beat writer Tim Twentyman, Nate Burleson did indeed make his return to practice today. He was reportedly spotted on the field with a helmet on whilst running through drills with the other receivers, and his ability to practice today means that he will most likely be out there for Sunday’s game against the rival Chicago Bears.
It was reported last week by multiple reporters, chiefly ESPN’s Chris Mortensen, that the expectation was for Burleson to return to the Lions following the team’s Week 9 bye. He definitely looks on track after practicing today, and his return will be huge for the Lions going forward.
As we saw earlier in the season, Burleson is a really good No. 2 option in the passing attack for Matthew Stafford, and he makes the Lions all the more deeper and more dangerous on offense. Calvin Johnson is a living legend who continues to defy reason, but teams cannot key in on him as much with Burleson on the field. Teams sold out their coverage on Johnson earlier in the year, and they paid as Burleson was able to pick up easy yardage. Consider that Burleson racked up at least six receptions in the first three games of the regular season, including 116 yards in Week 3. Against Charles Tillman and the Bears (Tillman seems to be the only guy who can play up with Johnson), Burleson’s return is even better for the Lions.
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