Detroit Lions expect Nate Burleson to play this weekend

The Detroit Lions have listed Nate Burleson as probable for their game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers this weekend.

The wide receiver has missed the last seven games after fracturing his arm in a car crash in September.

Offensive coordinator Scott Linehan told reporters: "When he went out he was our leading receiver at the time. On top of his ability to make plays for us and lead our group, he was having a very productive year, one of his better years too.

"Having him back in there is the reliability factor and the confidence the quarterback has in him is big."

Burleson recorded 239 receiving yards in the first three games of the season.