Cleveland Browns wide receiver Nate Burleson has insisted that the tough start to the 2014 schedule for his side is something that the players should look forward to rather than worry about.

Burleson said that playing some of the NFL's top teams early in the season will be a good test for them and will show how they compare against them from the previous year.

"You want to play some worthy opponents early on," Burleson told the club's official website. "Not only is it a test of where you are at as a team, but if we get those wins, it kind of changes the complexity of our division and how people perceive us.

"We play games for victories but to also send a message. Can you imagine how everyone will look at the Cleveland Browns if we start off the season very strong?"

The Browns finished bottom of the AFC North last season with a 4-12 record.