Cleveland Browns wide receiver Nate Burleson stated after practice on Thursday that 2014 might be his last season, according to Nate Ulrich. Burleson went on to say he hopes this coming year is a chance to do something special and ride off into the sunset.
Nate Burleson mulling retirement, hopeful for big finish this season
The Browns receiver stated Thursday that he thinks 2014 might be his last season. We break down the fantasy implications.
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Fantasy Impact: There's no question that Josh Gordon is the Browns' top receiver. However, even if his suspension is reduced, he'll be missing time in 2014. That leaves Burleson and teammates Miles Austin and Jordan Cameron to duke it out for targets.
Considering Burleson is 33 years old now and coming off a season in which he appeared in only nine games due to a broken arm, it’s likely his fantasy value will come as a borderline WR2 or flex option this season.
Add his position on the depth chart to the inconsistencies of Brian Hoyer and Johnny Manziel at quarterback and Burleson could see long stretches with little production in 2014. Fantasy owners who grab Burleson will do so counting on Gordon being out. That factor still only warrants the occasional start in specific situations for the veteran.
