The Detroit Lions have struggled to recapture the magic they had on offense last season. That challenge will be tougher now that they've lost one of their leaders.
Wide receiver Nate Burleson is done for the season after suffering a broken right leg during the Lions' 13-7 loss to the Chicago Bears on Monday night.
Burleson was injured while being tackled after making a 16-yard reception in the third quarter. He was helped off the field and tended to by trainers before heading to the locker room for further examination. Lions coach Jim Schwartz told reporters after the game that Burleson's season was over.
A 10-year NFL veteran who set a career-high with 73 receptions last season, Burleson was a key part of Detroit's offense, joining Calvin Johnson and Titus Young in the team's three-receiver sets. Expect rookie Ryan Broyles to take on a bigger role in the offense now.
Multiple teammates tapped Burleson on the helmet as he limped off the field, a sign of the respect he commands in the locker room. At 2-4 and standing at a crossroads, the Lions will miss the leadership and production Burleson provided.
UPDATE: Burleson will require surgery on his broken right leg and could be out up to eight months, according to the Detroit Free Press.
Follow Dan Hanzus on Twitter @danhanzus.
