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In the wake of Nate Burleson's car accident and need for surgery to repair a broken arm, the Detroit Lions have already started calling teams about potentially making a trade for a wide receiver, according to Tim Twentyman. Burleson's injury leaves them with a shortage of depth and talent at the position, especially with Patrick Edwards still recovering from an ankle injury. Needless to say, it's no surprise that they are exploring the possibility of a trade.
The #Lions have talked with multiple teams this morning regarding receivers available for possible trade, according to sources.
— Tim Twentyman (@ttwentyman) September 24, 2013
Who exactly might they be targeting in a deal? The Cleveland Browns are reportedly "fielding offers" for both Josh Gordon and Greg Little. Gordon is an especially intriguing option considering he caught 10 passes for 146 yards and a touchdown against the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday. There'd be some risk with acquiring Gordon considering he's one positive drug test away from a year-long suspension, but at this point the Lions may have to gamble to replace Burleson.
Last year, in need of help at wide receiver, the Lions traded a 2014 fifth-round pick to the Jacksonville Jaguars for Mike Thomas. That trade turned out to be a bad one considering Thomas didn't even make the 2013 53-man roster, but Martin Mayhew can't let that discourage him from pulling the trigger on a deal this year. The Lions need help at wide receiver, and if you can go out and get someone like Gordon, rolling the dice and giving up another draft pick may be a worthwhile move.