Detroit Lions: 15 best free agent acquisitions of all-time

A product of the University of Nevada, Nate Burleson made a name for himself early at the NFL level as a member of the Minnesota Vikings. During the 2004 season, Burleson went for over 1,000 yards in only his second season in the pros, but his run in the Twin Cities would be short-lived.

Prior to arriving in Detroit, Burleson spent four seasons with the Seattle Seahawks, and had two very good years there. In 2007, he hauled in nine touchdowns. Two years later, he racked up nearly 900 receiving yards. After the 2009 season, he would sign with the Lions, reconnecting with his former offensive coordinator Scott Linehan.

In fact, Burleson signed almost immediately during the 2010 free agency period, inking a five-year deal with the Lions worth $25 million. During his time with the organization, Burleson certainly had some big moments, and finished his career in the Motor City with over 2,000 yards receiving.

In total, Burleson hauled in 194 passes for 2,083 yards, while finding the end zone 12 times. He ended up breaking his forearm in 2013, and was cut by the team in 2014, ending a short, but productive run with the team. He tried to latch on with the Cleveland Browns in 2014, but the Lions uniform was the last he would wear in a regular season game in the NFL.

Burleson is still very much involved in the NFL, as he is a host on the NFL Network’s Good Morning Football. The media loved him during his time in Detroit, and he was certainly a solid contributor to the franchise in the early 2010s.