Lions release Burleson, Delmas

Allen Park, MI (SportsNetwork.com) - The Detroit Lions announced on Thursday that the team has released veteran wide receiver Nate Burleson and safety Louis Delmas.

Burleson had one year left on a five-year, $25 million contract he signed in 2010 and Delmas was due to make $5.5 million with a $500,000 roster bonus. The moves will save the Lions $11.5 million toward the 2014 salary cap.

Burleson missed 17 games over the past two seasons due to a broken forearm and broken leg. In four seasons with the Lions, Burleson recorded 194 receptions for 2,083 yards and 12 touchdowns.

Delmas, 26, missed 11 games throughout the 2011 and 2012 seasons due to knee injuries, but did play in all 16 games last season.

A 2009 second-round pick by the Lions, Delmas recorded 331 tackles, five sacks, six interceptions and four forced fumbles with the Lions.