To say that it's been a rough year for Buffalo Bills tight end Shawn Nelson would be an understatement. First, he missed the first four games of the season while suspended for violating the NFL's substance abuse policy. Then, in his first appearance of the season, he fumbled in overtime, allowing the Baltimore Ravens to earn a 37-34 victory in Week 7. He's missed the Bills' last three games as he struggles with migraine headaches, an ailment that caused him to miss time as a rookie, as well.
Per FOX's Adam Caplan, the Bills will place Nelson on the Reserve/Non-Football Illness list, ending his 2010 season. He had just three catches for 25 yards this season.
Nelson, a fourth-round pick in 2009, has been something of a disappointment to this point in his career, particularly this season, as he had a golden opportunity to land a prominent role in Chan Gailey's offensive system. The suspension and subsequent migraines prevented him from doing so, but he was also ineffective on the field when he did get limited opportunities.
Caplan also reports that Nelson's spot on the 53-man roster will be filled by offensive lineman Colin Brown - a signing that is not yet official, but was reported by Caplan earlier this morning.