National Football League

WR Burleson fitting in with new-look Lions

Published Aug. 10, 2010 4:11 a.m. ET

foxsports

All Nate Burleson wants to do is fit in.

The Detroit Lions signed the veteran receiver in the offseason hoping he would attract some of the defensive attention that had been directed at Calvin Johnson.

But Burleson has bigger plans. Rather than just making life easier for Johnson, Burleson hopes his presence helps bring balance and explosiveness to a receiving corps that ranked 21st in the NFL last season

''I don't want to make it seem like I'm everything that Detroit's been missing,'' Burleson said Monday. ''I think I can do some things on the outside, on the inside that will open up everybody. Obviously, if we can get Calvin more individual looks in one-on-one coverage, we're going to be an even more dangerous team.''

Burleson had 63 catches for 812 yards and four touchdowns in 13 games with Seattle last season. But when he arrived in Detroit, his first priority was to establish chemistry with his fellow receivers. He listened more than he talked.

The goal? To became part of the unit rather than simply the receiver brought in to take defensive pressure off of Johnson.

So far, so good.

''He's fit in since Day 1,'' Johnson said. ''All of the receivers are cool and laid back and everybody has their own little personality, but all of us fit. Everyone has a different attitude, but it all jells together for the betterment of the receiving corps.''

Burleson's infectious personality has began to blossom. In practice, he has performed without fear, going after balls whether it meant facing off against a linebacker or a defensive back.

Burleson said that's all part of his plan to prove to his teammates he's in Detroit for all the right reasons.

''The way I've been my whole life is that you have to go and you have to grind,'' Burleson said. ''You've got to go out there and give everything you've got. ''

Lions coach Jim Schwartz said Burleson will also be in the special teams mix once the season opens. He'll limit his time on punt returns during training camp to give less experienced returners the chance to improve.

Schwartz said Burleson will get his chance at some point.

''First quarter, fourth quarter, overtime - it's going to be some time and he's going to be ready,'' Schwartz said.

Burleson would prefer to be used more in certain situations rather than on a regular basis. He's not afraid to step into a role if it means helping his new team win games.

''At the end of the day, it's touching the ball,'' Burleson said. ''For me, it's another chance to get in the end zone.''