Calvin Johnson Ankle Injury Good News for Nate Burleson Fantasy Football Owners

While Detroit Lions wide receiver Calvin Johnson says he should be ready to play on Sunday against the Kansas City Chiefs, there are reasons his fantasy football owners should be concerned.

Johnson did not practice again today while he tries to reduce the swelling on his left ankle, which he rolled in the team's season opener against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

However, all is not lost for the Lions or for your fantasy team if Johnson cannot play on Sunday.

Quarterback Matthew Stafford has no shortage of targets to throw to, and one of them, receiver Nate Burleson, is looking to break out as a go-to playmaker for the third-year passer.

Burleson had five receptions for 60 yards and a 20-yard rush in the team's victory over the Buccaneers last week. He has both the speed and the hands to be a reliable option for Stafford this Sunday, should Johnson not be healthy enough to play.

It doesn't matter if you have Johnson and picked up Burleson as a handcuff, or if you're just a savvy fantasy GM who saw value waiver wire talent heading into the season and added him to your bench.

Either way, this week may be the time to test the waters and start him.

Regardless of the severity and longevity of Johnson's ankle injury, Burleson will maintain fantasy value throughout the season.

Don't think of Burleson as a backup, but as a No. 2 receiver who can play every offensive snap if necessary.