Nate Burleson Signs with the Detroit Lions, Pairing Up with 'Megatron'

Nate Burleson has been signed, marking the first official splash of the 2010 NFL free agency period. Only a couple hours in to the commencing midnight of free agency and the rebuilding Detroit Lions have already pounced on, well, a receiver of course. The Lions, who are notorious for their bad luck with drafting wide receivers (Calvin Johnson being the lone exception, of course), have apparently decided on another route, this time signing former Seahawks' wideout Nate Burleson via free agency to a deal reportedly worth $25 million over 5 years. According to espn.com, Burleson is guaranteed $11 million.

Although the Lions do have one of league's premier and young talents in Calvin Johnson, they're hoping that the addition of Nate Burleson can draw some coverage attention to the other side of the field and take some pressure of Johnson, also known as 'Megatron'. Johnson definitely saw a drop in production last year, nearly 400 yards and 7 touchdowns shy of the marks he set his sophomore year. The quick signing by the Lions enforces the desire to give Johnson some help. In addition, Nate Burleson will also give young quarterback Matthew Stafford another option to go to.

Burleson was considered one of the top free agents among the wide receivers in the 2010 NFL free agency class, group that still includes Terrell Owens, Kevin Walter, Chris Chambers, and Torry Holt. As evidenced by the list, Nate Burleson was one of the few receivers under the age of 30. The only other in the aforementioned list in his 20's is Kevin Walter, who also figures to sign a contract within the opening days of free agency.

Nate Burleson spent the past four seasons catching balls from Matt Hasselbeck in Seattle, that is, when he was healthy. After beginning a somewhat promising career in Minnesota (Burleson recorded over 1,000 yards receiving in his 2nd season), he struggled with injuries and inconsistent play during his time in Seattle. Nevertheless, he has shown flashes during his 8 year career, and he should fit in nicely as a possession-receiver. Following a 2008 season where he was limited to one game due to injury, Nate Burleson returned in 2009 to record 63 receptions, 803 yards, and 3 touchdowns over 13 games. If he can stay healthy, Burleson should be a nice complementary piece to Calvin Johnson and the rebuilding Lions.

Source

Espn.go.com