Vontaze Burfict
Vontaze Burfict exiting the field
Burfict with the Cincinnati Bengals in 2015
No. 55
Position:Linebacker
Personal information
Born: (1990-09-24) September 24, 1990
Los Angeles, California, U.S.
Height:6 ft 1 in (1.85 m)
Weight:255 lb (116 kg)
Career information
High school:Centennial (Corona, California)
College:Arizona State (2009–2011)
Undrafted:2012
Career history
Career highlights and awards
Career NFL statistics
Total tackles:622
Sacks:8.5
Forced fumbles:4
Fumble recoveries:5
Interceptions:5
Defensive touchdowns:1
Player stats at NFL.com · PFR

Vontaze DeLeon Burfict Jr. (/ˈvɒntɛz ˈbɜːrfɪkt/ VON-tez BUR-fikt;[1] born September 24, 1990) is an American professional football player who is a free agent played linebacker for eight seasons in the National Football League (NFL), primarily with the Cincinnati Bengals. He played college football for the Arizona State Sun Devils, earning first-team All-American honors. Burfict was a projected top pick in the 2012 NFL Draft[2][3][4] until an unimpressive NFL Combine performance and character concerns led to him not being selected. He was signed as an undrafted free agent by the Bengals,[5] where he spent his first seven seasons. In his final season, he was a member of the Oakland Raiders. He is regarded as one of the most controversial players of his generation.

Burfict led the Bengals in tackles during his rookie season[6] and earned Pro Bowl honors in 2013. He also incited controversy throughout his career for frequently violating player safety rules,[7][8] which caused him to be suspended for 22 games due to 14 separate incidents, and accumulate over $5.3 million in fines and forfeited salary.[9][10][11] Burfict missed most of his Raiders tenure due to being suspended 12 games for a personal foul, the longest on-field suspension in NFL history.[12]

High school career

Burfict attended Centennial High School in Corona, California, where he was part of an undefeated Huskies team that won a CIF state championship with the help of quarterback Taylor Martinez; the team was ranked second in the nation by USA Today in 2008.[13] That year, Burfict led the Huskies with 159 tackles, two quarterback sacks, two interceptions and two fumble recoveries. Burfict participated in the US Army All-American Bowl and was the third-leading tackler for the West team. He also earned numerous All-American honors, including Parade.[14]

Burfict missed almost all of his sophomore season due to academic problems.[15] As a junior, Burfict collected a team-high 130 tackles and added four sacks, two interceptions, and one fumble recovery. He helped anchor a linebacker unit that included fellow Sun Devils Shelly Lyons and Brandon Magee. Corona Centennial finished the 2007 season as No. 24 on USA Today's Top 25.[16]

He played in the 2009 U.S. Army All-American Bowl. Considered a five-star recruit by Rivals.com and Scout.com, Burfict was listed as the No. 1 inside linebacker prospect in the nation.[17]

Burfict's reputation for hard and often illegal hits dated back to his high school days. In 2019, Burfict's mother told USA Today that a number of parents frequently came up to her and asked her to tell her son not to hit their sons so hard. Burfict's uncle recalled that, at the time, helmet-to-helmet hits were not frowned on as much as they were by the time Burfict made it to the NFL.[18] Burfict's rivalry with quarterback Matt Barkley, which would continue into their college days, began in high school. In a game against Barkley's Mater Dei High School, Burfict made hits aimed at Barkley's knees that Barkley would later describe as dirty. Both Burfict and Barkley were committed to USC when the incident occurred.[19][20]

US college sports recruiting information for high school athletes
Name Hometown High school / college Height Weight 40 Commit date
Vontaze Burfict
LB
Corona, California Centennial High School (CA) 6 ft 2 in (1.88 m) 245 lb (111 kg) 4.6 Feb 4, 2009 
Recruiting star ratings: Scout:5/5 stars   Rivals:5/5 stars   247Sports: N/A    ESPN grade: 85
Overall recruiting rankings: Scout: 1 (MLB)   Rivals: 1 (ILB), 2 (CA)  ESPN: 1 (LB)
  • Note: In many cases, Scout, Rivals, 247Sports, and ESPN may conflict in their listings of height and weight.
  • In these cases, the average was taken. ESPN grades are on a 100-point scale.

Sources:

  • "Arizona State Football Commitments". Rivals.com. Retrieved March 17, 2012.
  • "2009 Arizona State Football Commits". Scout.com. Retrieved March 17, 2012.
  • "ESPN". ESPN.com. Retrieved March 17, 2012.
  • "Scout.com Team Recruiting Rankings". Scout.com. Retrieved March 17, 2012.
  • "2009 Team Ranking". Rivals.com. Retrieved March 17, 2012.

College career

Burfict pointing at Matt Barkley prior to a play
Burfict (left) pointing at USC Trojans quarterback Matt Barkley in 2011

Burfict originally committed to USC but eventually switched to Arizona State on National Signing Day.[21] He joined Arizona State's 2009 recruiting class that included three of his high school teammates.[22] By July 2009, he struggled to meet admission standards based on the NCAA eligibility sliding scale and still had one summer school class to complete.[23] Sun Devils coach Dennis Erickson, who compared Burfict to Ray Lewis,[24] expected him to be academically eligible for enrollment.[25] Burfict did qualify on time for the 2009 football season.[26]

By midseason, Burfict ranked second on the team with 30 tackles despite starting only three of six games and had five tackles for a loss, two sacks, and three pass break-ups. ESPN named him Arizona State's midseason defensive MVP.[27] In a road game against Georgia on September 26, Burfict collected a season-high 11 tackles (three solo) and one and a half tackles for loss. He led the Sun Devils in tackles in five games over the course of the season. By the end of the year, he had collected 69 tackles, seven tackles for loss, and a pair of sacks, and was named a Freshman All-American by College Football News, and the Football Writers Association of America.[28][29] He was also honored as the Pacific-10 Conference Defensive Freshman of the Year.[30]

At the start of his sophomore season, Burfict was named First-Team Preseason All-American by The Sporting News. He was also named to the watchlists of the 2010 Lombardi Award and the Bronko Nagurski Trophy.[31]

On October 6, 2010, Burfict was benched by Arizona State head coach Dennis Erickson. The reason given was Burfict's unusually high number of personal foul penalties.[32][33] In a game against Stanford, Burfict was called for grabbing the facemask of Doug Baldwin and—after complaining to the referee—charged with a personal foul for unsportsmanlike conduct that gave Stanford a first down at the ASU 7.[34] Two plays later, Stanford scored what turned out to be the winning touchdown.[34]

Burfict finished the 2010 season with a team-leading 90 total tackles, 8.5 tackles for a loss, and two forced fumbles. The Sporting News selected him to their All-American team, as well as Pacific-10 Defensive MVP.[31] Burfict was ASU's first-team All-American since Terrell Suggs.[35][36]

With senior cornerback Omar Bolden out for the season to a knee injury, Burfict was expected to take over as the leader of the Sun Devils defense in 2011[37][38] but eventually had a rather inconsistent junior season. He would finish the season with 69 total tackles, 7 tackles for a loss and 5 sacks.[39] In his Arizona State career, Burfict recorded 22 personal fouls in 37 games.[40] Burfict decided to forgo his senior year at Arizona State to pursue a career in the NFL.[41]

Professional career

Prior to his junior season, Burfict was regarded as one of the best linebackers available in the 2012 NFL Draft and was projected to be a first-round pick by most NFL draft experts.[2][3][4] His inconsistent play as a junior at Arizona State as well as off-the-field concerns, however, caused his draft stock to plummet. In October 2011, Sports Illustrated's Tony Pauline ranked him as the 20th-best prospect on his midseason draft board, but he noted that he has been "a loose cannon on and off the field, which has raised red flags".[42][43] Burfict's draft stock would continue to slide with a poor showing at the NFL Scouting Combine, where he performed the majority of drills but skipped the short shuttle and three-cone drills.[44]

External videos
video icon Vontaze Burfict's NFL Combine Workout

His overall performance at the combine was described as "disappointing" and a "debacle" due to a 5.09-second run of the 40-yard dash, which was the slowest among all linebackers.[45][46][47] Burfict also finished last among linebackers in the broad jump and finished second to last among linebackers in the vertical jump.[44][47] On March 16, 2012, Burfict attended Arizona State's pro day and performed the bench press (16 reps), vertical jump (30"), short shuttle (4.56s), and three-cone drill (7.51s). Burfict described his overall pro day performance as "average".[48] On April 25, 2012, it was reported by Fox Sports insider Jay Glazer that multiple NFL teams had been informed that Burfict had failed his drug test at the NFL Combine.[49] Burfict later stated during an interview with Scout.com that he admitted using marijuana to NFL general managers.[50] At the conclusion of the pre-draft process, Burfict was projected to be a seventh round pick by NFL draft experts and scouts.[51] Burfict was ranked as the ninth-best inside linebacker in the draft by Scouts Inc. and was ranked the tenth-best inside linebacker by DraftScout.com.[52][53]

Pre-draft measurables
HeightWeightArm lengthHand span40-yard dash10-yard split20-yard split20-yard shuttleThree-cone drillVertical jumpBroad jumpBench press
6 ft 1+38 in
(1.86 m)
248 lb
(112 kg)
31+14 in
(0.79 m)
9+34 in
(0.25 m)
5.09 s1.78 s2.96 s4.56 s7.51 s30 in
(0.76 m)
8 ft 8 in
(2.64 m)
16 reps
All values from NFL CombineArizona State's Pro Day[54][53]

Burfict went undrafted in the 2012 NFL Draft. On April 29, 2012, the Cincinnati Bengals signed Burfict to a three-year, $1.44 million contract that featured a signing bonus of $1,000.[55][56]

Cincinnati Bengals

2012 season

Burfict stands with his helmet half on his head
Burfict at Bengals training camp in 2012

Throughout training camp, Burfict competed for a roster spot as a backup middle linebacker against veteran Roddrick Muckelroy. Head coach Marvin Lewis named Burfict the backup middle linebacker, behind Rey Maualuga, to begin the regular season.[57]

He made his professional regular season debut in the Cincinnati Bengals' season-opening 13–44 loss at the Baltimore Ravens. On September 23, 2012, Burfict earned his first career start at weakside linebacker after Thomas Howard was placed on injured reserve after tearing his ACL during practice.[58] He recorded seven combined tackles during the Bengals' 38–31 win at the Washington Redskins in Week 2. In Week 3, Burfict made eight solo tackles, broke up a pass, and made his first career sack during a 27–10 win at the Jacksonville Jaguars. Burfict sacked Jaguars quarterback Blaine Gabbert for an 11-yard loss in the fourth quarter.[59] On December 30, 2012, Burfict collected a season-high 18 combined tackles (ten solo) as the Bengals defeated the Baltimore Ravens 23–17.[60] Burfict finished his rookie season in 2012 with 127 combined tackles (73 solo), two pass deflections, and one sack in 16 games and 14 starts.[61] He led the team in tackles as a rookie and finished 15th among all players in the league. When Burfict was on the field, the Bengals defense allowed 2.4 yards fewer per play, allowing 4.5 compared to 6.9 when he was off the field.[6]

The Cincinnati Bengals finished second in the AFC North with a 10–6 record and earned a Wild Card berth.[62] On January 5, 2013, Burfict started his first career playoff game and recorded six combined tackles during the Bengals' 13–19 loss to the Houston Texans in the AFC Wildcard Game.[63]

2013 season

Burfict entered training camp slated as the team's starting weakside linebacker under defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer. Head coach Marvin Lewis named Burfict and James Harrison the team's starting outside linebackers to begin the regular season, along with middle linebacker Rey Maualuga.[64]

He started in the Cincinnati Bengals' season-opener at the Chicago Bears and recorded eight combined tackles, deflected a pass, and made his first career interception during a 21–24 loss. Burfict intercepted a pass by Bears quarterback Jay Cutler, that was originally intended for running back Michael Bush, and returned it for a 12-yard gain during the fourth quarter.[65] For incidents that occurred in the 34–30 win over the Green Bay Packers in Week 3 of the 2013 season, Burfict was fined a total of $31,000.[66] He was fined for a hit on a defenseless receiver (James Jones) and intentionally struck an opponent in the groin (Ryan Taylor).[67] On November 17, 2013, Burfict collected a season-high 15 combined tackles (ten solo), broke up a pass, and returned a fumble recovery for his first career touchdown during a 41–20 win against the Cleveland Browns in Week 11. Burfict forced a fumble by Browns running back Chris Ogbonnaya, recovered the ball, and returned it for a 13-yard touchdown.[68] On December 27, 2013, it was announced that Burfict was selected to play in the 2014 Pro Bowl. He became the first Bengals linebacker to be selected to a Pro Bowl since Jim LeClair in 1976.[69] Burfict started in all 16 games in 2013, recording a career-high 171 combined tackles (114 solo); making six pass deflections, three sacks, one interception, one forced fumble, and one fumble recovery; and scoring one touchdown.[61] Burfict led all players in tackles in 2013 and also topped the NFL's "Performance-Based Pay" program list with $299,465 in earnings that year.[70]

The Cincinnati Bengals finished first in the AFC North with an 11–5 record in 2013 and clinched a wild card spot. During the AFC Wild Card round, Burfict made seven combined tackles and was credited with half a sack as the Bengals lost 10–27 against the San Diego Chargers.[71]

2014 season

Burfict drinking water
Burfict at 2014 Bengals training camp

On January 15, 2014, the Cincinnati Bengals announced their decision to promote linebackers coach Paul Guenther to defensive coordinator after Mike Zimmer accepted the head coaching position with the Minnesota Vikings.[72]

On August 20, 2014, the Cincinnati Bengals signed Burfict to a four-year, $19 million contract that included $6.90 million guaranteed and a signing bonus of $3.10 million.[56][73] Head coach Marvin Lewis retained Burfict as the starting linebacker in 2014 alongside Rey Maualuga and Emmanuel Lamur.[74]

Burfict sustained a concussion while sacking quarterback Joe Flacco during the Bengals season-opening 23–16 victory at the Baltimore Ravens. In Week 2, Burfict sustained another concussion during a 24–10 win against the Atlanta Falcons. Burfict remained in concussion protocol due to concussion-related symptoms and remained inactive for the next two games (Weeks 3 and 4).[75][76] During Week 6 against the Carolina Panthers, Burfict collected a season-high ten combined tackles (seven solo) as the game ended in a 37–37 tie. On October 14, 2014, Panthers tight end Greg Olsen accused Burfict of intentionally trying to injure him and quarterback Cam Newton by twisting their ankles after touchdowns by both.[77] On October 15, 2014, the NFL fined Burfict $25,000 for the ankle twisting incidents involving Olsen and Newton.[78][79] In Week 8, Burfict recorded seven combined tackles and suffered a knee injury during a 27–24 win against the Baltimore Ravens. On October 29, 2014, it was reported that Burfict had undergone arthroscopic surgery on his knee.[80] He was inactive for the next six games (Weeks 9–14) and was subsequently placed on injured reserve on December 9, 2014.[81] Burfict was limited to five games and five starts in 2014 and recorded 29 combined tackles (15 solo) and two pass deflections.[61]

2015 season

On January 26, 2015, it was revealed that Burfict had undergone microfracture surgery after issues in his knee that was surgically repaired the previous October continued to persist.[82][83] On July 28, 2015, the Cincinnati Bengals placed Burfict on their physically unable to perform list.[84] On September 5, 2015, the Cincinnati Bengals placed Burfict on their physically unable to perform list to begin the 2015 regular season.[85] On October 31, 2015, the Cincinnati Bengals activated Burfict from their PUP list and added him to their active roster.[86] Upon joining the active roster, Burfict was named a starting linebacker along with A. J. Hawk and Rey Maualuga.[87]

In Week 14, he collected a season-high 11 solo tackles during a 20–33 loss against the Pittsburgh Steelers. On December 15, 2015, Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger accused Burfict of having intentionally targeted his ankle in the teams' regular season game on December 13.[88] On December 18, 2015, Burfict received three fines from the NFL that totaled $69,454. He received a fine for his hit on Ben Roethlisberger and received two other fines for unnecessary roughness penalties.[89][90] In Week 15, Burfict made seven combined tackles, a season-high three pass deflections, and an interception during a 24–14 win at the San Francisco 49ers. On January 1, 2016, Burfict recorded a season-high 12 combined tackles (eight solo), deflected two passes, and made an interception as the Bengals defeated the Baltimore Ravens 24–16. He finished the 2015 NFL season with 74 combined tackles (57 solo), five pass deflections, two interceptions, and one sack in ten games and ten starts.[61]

The Cincinnati Bengals clinched the AFC North with a 12–4 record. During the AFC Wild Card round against the Pittsburgh Steelers in Cincinnati, Burfict recorded six combined tackles, one deflected pass, one interception, and one sack. However, Burfict also committed a critical penalty for unnecessary roughness with 18 seconds left in the fourth quarter when the Bengals were leading Pittsburgh 16–15. His penalty was for a hit he delivered with his shoulder to the head of wide receiver Antonio Brown. Brown was considered a defenseless receiver as he was attempting to make a reception and was subsequently knocked unconscious and exited the game with a concussion. Bengals' cornerback Adam Jones subsequently received an unsportsmanlike conduct penalty, which advanced the line of scrimmage 30 yards and allowed the Steelers to kick a go-ahead 35-yard field goal to win the game 18-16.[91]

2016 season

On January 11, 2016, the NFL announced their decision to suspend Burfict for the first three games of the 2016 season for repeated violations of player safety rules.[92] Burfict served his three-game suspension (Weeks 1–3) to begin the 2016 NFL season. Upon his return, head coach Marvin Lewis named Burfict the starting linebacker along with Karlos Dansby and Rey Maualuga.[93][94] On December 4, 2016, Burfict collected a season-high 15 combined tackles (ten solo), made four pass deflections, and intercepted two passes as the Bengals defeated the Philadelphia Eagles 32–14. Burfict intercepted two pass attempts by Eagles quarterback Carson Wentz.[95] In Week 15, Burfict recorded nine combined tackles and broke up a pass before exiting in the second quarter of the Bengals' 20–24 loss against the Pittsburgh Steelers due to a concussion. Burfict remained in the league's concussion protocol and was inactive for the last two games (Weeks 16–17) of the regular season.[96] He finished the season with 101 combined tackles (73 solo), eight pass deflections, two interceptions, two sacks, one forced fumble, and one fumble recovery in 11 games and 11 starts.[61]

2017 season

Burfict with his helmet off and Bengals uniform on
Burfict with the Bengals in 2017

On August 28, 2017, Burfict was suspended for the first five games of the 2017 regular season due to a blindside block he made on Chiefs fullback Anthony Sherman during the second preseason game.[97] On August 30, 2017, Burfict appealed the suspension, and the league ultimately reduced the suspension to three games.[98] On September 7, 2017, the Bengals signed Burfict to a three-year, $32.53 million contract extension that included $11.23 million guaranteed and a signing bonus of $3.30 million.[56][99] The contract would make Burfict one the highest paid linebackers in the NFL.[100]

In Week 5, he collected a season-high 13 combined tackles (ten solo), deflected a pass, and made a sack during a 20–16 win against the Buffalo Bills. On October 22, 2017, Burfict's on the field conduct once again gained attention after he kicked Steelers fullback Roosevelt Nix in the face mask during the Bengals' 14–29 loss at the Pittsburgh Steelers in Week 7.[101][102] On October 27, 2017, Burfict was fined $12,154 for kicking Nix.[103] During Week 10 against the Tennessee Titans, Burfict was ejected for the first time in his NFL career after he committed two personal foul penalties. The first penalty was a late hit on DeMarco Murray, and the other one was unsportsmanlike conduct for making contact with an official. Burfict left the field by imitating a celebration taunt of quarterback Johnny Manziel.[104][105] On December 4, 2017, Burfict made six combined tackles during the Bengals' 20–23 loss against the Pittsburgh Steelers in Week 13 before being carted off the field during the fourth quarter. Burfict left the game with a concussion following a blindside block by rookie receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster on Monday Night Football.[106] Smith-Schuster was penalized for unnecessary roughness and taunted Burfict by standing over him after delivering the hit.[107] Burfict remained in concussion protocol and was sidelined for the next two games (Weeks 14–15).[108] He was also inactive for the Bengals' Week 17 victory at the Baltimore Ravens due to a shoulder injury.[109] He finished the 2017 NFL season with 69 combined tackles (48 solo), two pass deflections, 1.5 sacks, and one forced fumble in ten games and ten starts.[61]

2018 season

On January 8, 2018, the Cincinnati Bengals announced their decision to hire Teryl Austin, who was previously the defensive coordinator for the Detroit Lions as their new defensive coordinator. The position was left vacant after the departure of Paul Guenther, who was hired by the Oakland Raiders.[110] On March 16, 2018, Burfict received a four-game suspension for violating the league's policy against performance-enhancing drugs.[111][112] Burfict would blame the failed drug test on Smith-Schuster's illegal hit the year prior as well as the fact that he was on prescription drugs.[106]

In Week 6, Burfict delivered a hit to wide receiver Antonio Brown that unintentionally injured Bengals teammate Jessie Bates and sidelined him for the remainder of their 28–21 loss against the Pittsburgh Steelers.[113] On October 20, 2018, Burfict was fined $112,000 for hits in Week 6 on Antonio Brown and James Conner that the league considered unnecessary.[114] Burfict was inactive for two games (Weeks 8–10) due to a hip injury he sustained during a Week 7 loss at the Kansas City Chiefs.[115] On March 18, 2019, Burfict was released by the Bengals after seven seasons with the team.[116]

Oakland Raiders

On March 19, 2019, Burfict signed a one-year, $5 million contract with the Oakland Raiders.[117] Burfict made his debut with the Raiders in week 1 against the Denver Broncos. In the game, Burfict made six tackles in the 24–16 win.[118]

During Week 4 against the Indianapolis Colts, Burfict made a helmet-to-helmet hit on Jack Doyle and was ejected from the game. The next day, the NFL suspended Burfict for the rest of the 2019 season without pay. In a letter to Burfict notifying him of the suspension, NFL vice president of operations and chief disciplinarian Jon Runyan told Burfict that he had continued to "flagrantly abuse" player safety rules, despite numerous warnings from the league.[119] This became the longest suspension for on-field misconduct in modern NFL history, more than doubling the five-game suspension mandated to Albert Haynesworth in 2006.[120] Burfict appealed his suspension, but on October 9, the suspension was upheld. Three days earlier, on October 6, the NFL had notified Burfict that it discovered another illegal hit in the game when he made a helmet-to-helmet hit against Colts running back Nyheim Hines, although no penalty was called at that time.[121] He was reinstated on December 30, 2019.[122] Since then, Burfict has indicated his intent to continue playing in the NFL; he became a free agent in 2020 at the conclusion of his one-year contract with the Raiders and has not declared that he is retired.[123]

NFL career statistics

NFL career statistics for Vontaze Burfict
Year Team Games Tackles Interceptions Fumbles
GPGSCombSoloAstSckPDIntYdsAvgLngTDFFFR
2012CIN 161412773541.022
2013CIN 1616171114573.0611212.01212
2014CIN 55291514211
2015CIN 10107457171.052168.016
2016CIN 111110173282.0825427.0471
2017CIN 10106948211.521
2018CIN 773316173
2019OAK 44181171
Total79776224072158.52958215.74745

Personal life

Burfict was born in South Los Angeles. His father, a gang member and convicted cocaine dealer, was incarcerated most of the time and never had a relationship with his son.[124] His mother, a city transit bus driver, initially raised Burfict and his older half-brother DaShan Miller (b. 1986) on her own but eventually remarried and moved to Corona.[124][125] Like Burfict, Miller was a football player at Corona Centennial High School and later played college football at UTEP and Akron as a wide receiver.[125]

On December 5, 2020, it was revealed that Burfict was arrested for misdemeanor battery outside of a casino in Las Vegas. He was released from jail the same day on a $1,000 bond.[126][127] The charges against Burfict were later dropped.[127]

Legacy

Rappers JPEGMafia and Danny Brown have a song named after the football player, entitled "Burfict!", on their collaborative album Scaring the Hoes (2023).[128]

References

  1. "Vontaze Burfict". Cincinnati Bengals. Archived from the original on May 8, 2012.
  2. 1 2 Prisco, Pete (May 1, 2011). "Flash forward: Top 32 picks for the 2012 NFL Draft". CBSSports.com. Archived from the original on September 28, 2011. Retrieved February 29, 2012.
  3. 1 2 Pauline, Tony (May 3, 2011). "Stanford's Luck headlines early look at top 2012 draft prospects". Sports Illustrated. Archived from the original on May 7, 2011. Retrieved February 29, 2012.
  4. 1 2 Reuter, Chad (May 4, 2011). "2012 mock draft: First look with Luck and Heels". CBSSports.com. Archived from the original on May 22, 2012. Retrieved February 29, 2012.
  5. "Undrafted LB Burfict gets chance with Bengals". NFL.com. May 11, 2012. Archived from the original on September 16, 2022. Retrieved September 16, 2022.
  6. 1 2 McTigue, John (January 3, 2013). "Burfict's impact on Bengals is unmatched". ESPN.com. Archived from the original on October 28, 2022. Retrieved October 28, 2022.
  7. Schwab, Frank (November 12, 2017). "Vontaze Burfict, NFL's dirtiest player, gets himself ejected and imitates Johnny Manziel". yahoo.com. Archived from the original on January 21, 2018. Retrieved January 20, 2018.
  8. Phillips, Ryan (September 7, 2017). "Vontaze Burfict, Football's Dirtiest Player, Signs $38.68 Million Extension". thebiglead.com. Archived from the original on January 21, 2018. Retrieved January 20, 2018.
  9. "Spotrac.com: Vontaze Burfict fines". Spotrac.com. Archived from the original on May 1, 2019. Retrieved January 20, 2018.
  10. "As Vontaze Burfict appeals suspension, NFLPA should look to keep him banned". Yahoo Sports. October 1, 2019. Retrieved November 25, 2023.
  11. Connolly, Oliver (October 1, 2019). "Vontaze Burfict's history of violence proved too much even for the NFL". The Guardian. ISSN 0261-3077. Retrieved November 25, 2023.
  12. Mather, Victor (September 30, 2019). "Vontaze Burfict Suspended for the Rest of the N.F.L. Season". The New York Times. ISSN 0362-4331. Retrieved November 25, 2023.
  13. Halley, Jim (December 22, 2008). "Fort Lauderdale's Aquinas finishes season atop Super 25". USA Today. Archived from the original on May 4, 2012. Retrieved September 17, 2017.
  14. O'Shea, Michael (January 25, 2009). "Meet PARADE's All-America High School Football Team". Parade. Archived from the original on September 1, 2009. Retrieved August 3, 2009.
  15. Crabtree, Jeremy (November 4, 2007). "Junior LB makes the grades, delivers impact". USA Today. Archived from the original on August 7, 2009. Retrieved September 17, 2017.
  16. Halley, Jim (December 26, 2007). "Miami Northwestern crowned Super 25 champion". USA Today. Archived from the original on May 12, 2012. Retrieved September 17, 2017.
  17. "Rivals.com inside linebackers 2009". rivals.rivals.com. Archived from the original on October 28, 2022. Retrieved October 28, 2022.
  18. Josh Peter (October 2, 2019). "Vontaze Burfict has been playing this way 'since he was a little kid'". USA Today. Archived from the original on December 26, 2019. Retrieved November 18, 2019.
  19. Pearson, Zack (November 5, 2021). "USC's Matt Barkley was one of the first to realize Vontaze Burfict played dirty". USA Today. Archived from the original on September 16, 2022. Retrieved September 16, 2022.
  20. Holmes, Baxter (September 21, 2011). "Arizona State's Vontaze Burfict presents a devil of a challenge for opponents". Los Angeles Times. Archived from the original on September 16, 2022. Retrieved September 16, 2022.
  21. Sondheimer, Eric (February 4, 2009). "ASU gets big-time recruit in linebacker Burfict". Los Angeles Times. Archived from the original on March 12, 2009. Retrieved August 3, 2009.
  22. Kosmider, Nick (February 11, 2009). "ASU adds wide receiver to recruiting class". State Press. Retrieved December 4, 2012.
  23. Metcalfe, Jeff (July 18, 2009). "HS coach 'relatively optimistic' about Burfict qualifying". The Arizona Republic. Archived from the original on January 10, 2023. Retrieved August 3, 2009.
  24. Bordow, Scott (August 15, 2009). "Burfict has perfect linebacker philosophy". East Valley Tribune. Archived from the original on August 18, 2009.
  25. Metcalfe, Jeff (August 13, 2009). "ASU expects Burfict to be eligible". The Arizona Republic. Archived from the original on January 10, 2023. Retrieved August 19, 2009.
  26. Miller, Ted (September 5, 2009). "Arizona State's Burfict ruled eligible". ESPN.com. Archived from the original on October 28, 2022. Retrieved October 28, 2022.
  27. Miller, Ted (October 20, 2009). "Midseason review: Arizona State". ESPN.com. Archived from the original on October 26, 2009. Retrieved October 23, 2009.
  28. Cirminiello, Richard (December 8, 2009). "2009 CFN All-Freshman Team: Defense & Special Teams". College Football News. Archived from the original on December 19, 2013. Retrieved March 10, 2017.
  29. "2009 AON Insurance/FWAA Freshman All-America Team". FWAA. January 7, 2010. Archived from the original on February 14, 2010. Retrieved February 3, 2010.
  30. "Merlin Robertson Named Pac-12 Defensive Freshman of the Year". Arizona State University Athletics. December 4, 2018. Archived from the original on October 28, 2022. Retrieved October 28, 2022.
  31. 1 2 "ASU's Burfict named First-Team All-American". ASU News. June 23, 2010. Archived from the original on October 28, 2022. Retrieved October 28, 2022.
  32. Metcalfe, Jeff (October 5, 2010). "Dennis Erickson takes Vontaze Burfict out of Arizona State starting lineup vs. Washington". The Arizona Republic. Archived from the original on January 10, 2023. Retrieved October 7, 2010.
  33. VoxMediaUser136261 (October 6, 2010). "ASU benches the monster". UW Dawg Pound. Archived from the original on October 28, 2022. Retrieved October 28, 2022.{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: numeric names: authors list (link)
  34. 1 2 Boivin, Paola (November 13, 2010). "ASU football team sees spirited effort derailed by Vontaze Burfict's mistakes". The Arizona Republic. Archived from the original on January 10, 2023. Retrieved November 27, 2010.
  35. Talbot, Damond (April 23, 2012). "All Eyez on Me - Vontaze Burfict, Tell All Story". SBNation.com. Archived from the original on October 28, 2022. Retrieved October 28, 2022.
  36. Hinton, Matt (May 11, 2011). "Coming Attractions: Vontaze Burfict, Arizona State's loose cannon". sports.yahoo.com. Archived from the original on October 28, 2022. Retrieved October 28, 2022.
  37. Haller, Doug (April 21, 2011). "ASU's Vontaze Burfict embracing leadership role". The Arizona Republic. Archived from the original on January 10, 2023. Retrieved May 3, 2011.
  38. Dodd, Dennis (May 20, 2011). "Burfict timing? Arizona State can climb if 'backer grows up". CBS Sports. Archived from the original on October 16, 2012. Retrieved May 23, 2011.
  39. "Vontaze Burfict 2011 Game Log". sports-reference.com. October 10, 2022. Archived from the original on October 11, 2022. Retrieved October 11, 2022.
  40. Haller, Doug (October 3, 2019). "Looking back at the Raiders' Vontaze Burfict during his college years at Arizona State". The Athletic. Archived from the original on October 28, 2022. Retrieved October 28, 2022.
  41. Schad, Joe (January 3, 2012). "Vontaze Burfict enters NFL draft". ESPN. Archived from the original on April 21, 2012. Retrieved August 1, 2012.
  42. Pauline, Tony (October 24, 2011). "Andrew Luck, Trent Richardson high in midseason NFL draft rankings". SI.com. Archived from the original on October 27, 2011. Retrieved March 3, 2012.
  43. Keeley, Sean (January 3, 2012). "NFL Draft 2012: Arizona State LB Vontaze Burfict Declares". SBnation.com. Archived from the original on December 6, 2018. Retrieved December 5, 2018.
  44. 1 2 Denny, Brad (February 27, 2012). "2012 NFL Combine: ASU LB Vontaze Burfict Results & Analysis". House of Sparky. Archived from the original on October 28, 2022. Retrieved October 28, 2022.
  45. Rang, Rob (February 27, 2012). "Lackluster Combine could push Burfict to Day 3". CBS Sports. Archived from the original on September 27, 2015. Retrieved March 1, 2012.
  46. Banks, Don (February 29, 2012). "Andrew Luck, Stephen Hill, Vontaze Burfict make their mark on NFL combine". SI.com.
  47. 1 2 Katzowitz, Josh (February 20, 2014). "NFL combine: Vontaze Burfict's 2012 debacle drops him out of draft". CBSSports.com. Archived from the original on October 11, 2022. Retrieved October 11, 2022.
  48. Marotta, Vince (March 16, 2012). "ASU Pro Day: Burfict 'average', Bolden '100% healthy'". Arizona Sports. Archived from the original on March 25, 2012. Retrieved March 17, 2012.
  49. "Vontaze Burfict, JayRon Hosley fail drug test before NFL draft". NFL.com. April 25, 2012. Archived from the original on December 6, 2018. Retrieved December 5, 2018.
  50. "NFL draft prospect Vontaze Burfict admits to smoking pot". NFL.com. April 25, 2012. Archived from the original on December 6, 2018. Retrieved December 5, 2018.
  51. Florio, Mike (April 27, 2012). "Despite red flags, Burfict is expected to go in round seven". ProFootballTalk. Archived from the original on October 28, 2022. Retrieved October 28, 2022.
  52. "NFL Vontaze Burfict -ESPN". ESPN.com. Retrieved December 5, 2018.
  53. 1 2 "2012 Draft Scout Vontaze Burfict, Arizona State NFL Draft Scout College Football Profile". DraftScout.com. Archived from the original on January 10, 2023. Retrieved December 5, 2018.
  54. "Vontaze Burfict Draft and Combine Prospect Profile". NFL.com. Archived from the original on August 15, 2022. Retrieved December 4, 2018.
  55. Patra, Kevin (April 22, 2012). "Vontaze Burfict, Bengals talking extension". NFL.com. Archived from the original on December 6, 2018. Retrieved December 5, 2018.
  56. 1 2 3 "Spotrac.com: Vontaze Burfict contract". Spotrac.com. Archived from the original on December 6, 2018. Retrieved December 5, 2018.
  57. Hangst, Andrea (September 1, 2012). "Vontaze Burfict Ousts Roddrick Muckelroy on Cincinnati Bengals' Final Roster". BleacherReport.com. Archived from the original on December 6, 2018. Retrieved December 5, 2018.
  58. Kruse, Zach (September 15, 2012). "Cincinnati Bengals: Thomas Howard's Injury Gives Vontaze Burfict Chance to Shine". bleacherreport.com. Archived from the original on December 6, 2018. Retrieved December 5, 2018.
  59. "Cincinnati Bengals at Jacksonville Jaguars - September 30th, 2012". pro-football-reference.com. Archived from the original on December 6, 2018. Retrieved December 5, 2018.
  60. "NFL Player stats: Vontaze Burfict (2012)". NFL.com. Archived from the original on May 23, 2020. Retrieved December 5, 2012.
  61. 1 2 3 4 5 6 "NFL Player stats: Vontaze Burfict (career)". NFL.com. Archived from the original on December 6, 2018. Retrieved December 5, 2018.
  62. "2012 Cincinnati Bengals Rosters, Stats, Schedule, Team Draftees, Injury Reports". Pro-Football-Reference.com. Archived from the original on November 11, 2020. Retrieved October 28, 2022.
  63. "Bengals vs. Texans - Box Score - January 5, 2013 - ESPN". ESPN.com. Archived from the original on October 28, 2022. Retrieved October 28, 2022.
  64. "Ourlads.com: Cincinnati Bengals Depth Chart: 09/05/2013". Ourlads.com. Archived from the original on December 6, 2018. Retrieved December 5, 2018.
  65. "Cincinnati Bengals at Chicago Bears - September 8th, 2013". pro-football-reference.com. Archived from the original on November 13, 2020. Retrieved December 5, 2018.
  66. "Vontaze Burfict fined $31,000 for two Week 3 incidents". NFL.com. September 27, 2013. Archived from the original on October 23, 2013. Retrieved October 22, 2013.
  67. Jones, Lindsay H (September 27, 2013). "Bengals' Vontaze Burfict racks up $31K in Week 3 fines". USA Today. Archived from the original on December 6, 2018. Retrieved September 17, 2017.
  68. "Cleveland Browns at Cincinnati Bengals - November 17th, 2013". pro-football-reference.com. Archived from the original on December 6, 2018. Retrieved December 5, 2018.
  69. "2014 Pro Bowl: Complete Roster". NFL.com. December 26, 2012. Archived from the original on March 22, 2019. Retrieved December 5, 2018.
  70. "Vontaze Burfict earns top figure in 'Performance-Based Pay'". NFL.com. March 20, 2013. Archived from the original on June 20, 2015. Retrieved June 20, 2015.
  71. "NFL Player stats: Vontaze Burfict (2013)". NFL.com. Archived from the original on December 6, 2018. Retrieved December 5, 2018.
  72. "Paul Guenther to run Cincinnati Bengals' defense". NFL.com. January 15, 2014. Archived from the original on December 6, 2018. Retrieved December 5, 2018.
  73. Coppinger, Mike (August 20, 2014). "Vontaze Burfict, Bengals reach long-term extension". nfl.com. Archived from the original on March 11, 2018. Retrieved March 10, 2018.
  74. Dunn, Andrew (September 3, 2014). "Cincinnati Bengal 2014 Virtual Program: Depth Chart Analysis, X-Factors, More". bleacherreport.com. Archived from the original on August 4, 2019. Retrieved December 5, 2018.
  75. Wesseling, Chris (September 17, 2014). "Vontaze Burfict misses practice with concussion". NFL.com. Archived from the original on December 6, 2018. Retrieved December 6, 2018.
  76. Marcum, Jason (September 21, 2014). "Bengals vs. Titans Inactives: Vontaze Burfict misses first NFL game". cincyjungle.com. Archived from the original on December 6, 2018. Retrieved December 6, 2018.
  77. Newton, David (October 13, 2014). "Greg Olsen calls out Vontaze Burfict". ESPN.com. Archived from the original on October 15, 2014. Retrieved October 15, 2014.
  78. "Vontaze Burfict fined $25,000". ESPN.com. October 15, 2014. Archived from the original on October 16, 2014. Retrieved October 16, 2014.
  79. "Greg Olsen: Vontaze Burfict should be suspended". NFL.com. October 13, 2014. Archived from the original on December 6, 2018. Retrieved December 6, 2018.
  80. "Injury roundup: Vontaze Burfict undergoes knee surgery". NFL.com. Archived from the original on December 6, 2018. Retrieved December 6, 2018.
  81. "Vontaze Burfict placed on IR, ending his season". Cincinnati Enquirer. December 9, 2014. Archived from the original on August 6, 2020. Retrieved December 6, 2018.
  82. Wise, Brandon (January 26, 2015). "Bengals' Vontaze Burfict undergoes microfracture surgery". cbssports.com. Archived from the original on December 6, 2018. Retrieved December 6, 2018.
  83. Rapoport, Ian (January 26, 2015). "Bengals' Vontaze Burfict had microfracture surgery". NFL.com. Archived from the original on December 6, 2018. Retrieved December 6, 2018.
  84. Alper, Josh (July 28, 2015). "Bengals place Vontaze Burfict on PUP list". profootballtalk.nbcsports.com. Archived from the original on December 6, 2018. Retrieved December 6, 2018.
  85. Owczarski, Jim (September 5, 2015). "Bengals notes: Vontaze Burfict to start year on PUP". Cincinnati Enquirer. Archived from the original on August 7, 2020. Retrieved December 6, 2018.
  86. Patra, Kevin (October 31, 2015). "Bengals activate Vontaze Burfict from PUP list". NFL.com. Archived from the original on December 6, 2018. Retrieved December 6, 2018.
  87. Owczarski, Jim (November 2, 2015). "Bengals notes: Burfict back with an edge, Steelers criticize him". The Cincinnati Enquirer. Archived from the original on May 21, 2022. Retrieved October 28, 2022.
  88. Wilson, Ryan (December 15, 2015). "Ben Roethlisberger: Vontaze Burfict intentionally dived at my legs". CBSSports.com. Archived from the original on October 28, 2022. Retrieved October 28, 2022.
  89. Schwab, Frank (December 18, 2015). "Vontaze Burfict's cheap low hit on Big Ben costs him a heavy fine". news.yahoo.com. Archived from the original on October 28, 2022. Retrieved October 28, 2022.
  90. Kelley, Jeanna (December 18, 2015). "Bengals LB Vontaze Burfict fined $69,454 vs. Steelers". SBNation.com. Archived from the original on December 6, 2018. Retrieved December 6, 2018.
  91. Bien, Louis (January 10, 2016). "Vontaze Burfict, Pacman Jones commit two personal fouls to give Steelers game-winner". SBNation.com. Archived from the original on January 12, 2016. Retrieved January 10, 2016.
  92. Coolong, Neal (January 12, 2016). "Vontaze Burfict suspended three games". Steelers Wire. Archived from the original on October 28, 2022. Retrieved October 28, 2022.
  93. Tasman, Kyle (September 6, 2016). "Bengals release first depth chart of 2016". CBSSports.com. Archived from the original on October 31, 2018. Retrieved December 6, 2018.
  94. "Ourlads.com: Cincinnati Bengals Depth Chart: 10/01/2016". Ourlads.com. Archived from the original on December 7, 2018. Retrieved December 6, 2018.
  95. "Philadelphia Eagles at Cincinnati Bengals - December 4th, 2016". pro-football-reference.com. Archived from the original on January 13, 2018. Retrieved December 6, 2018.
  96. Toback, Rebecca (December 21, 2016). "Vontaze Burfict in NFL concussion protocol". cincyjungle.com. Archived from the original on December 7, 2018. Retrieved December 6, 2018.
  97. Orr, Conor (August 28, 2017). "Bengals' Vontaze Burfict facing 5-game suspension". NFL.com. Archived from the original on August 28, 2017. Retrieved August 28, 2017.
  98. "Vontaze Burfict's suspension reduced to three games". NFL.com. August 30, 2017. Archived from the original on August 31, 2017. Retrieved August 31, 2017.
  99. Roling, Chris (September 7, 2017). "Bengals, Vontaze Burfict agree on 3-year contract extension". Bengals Wire. Archived from the original on October 28, 2022. Retrieved October 28, 2022.
  100. Rapaport, Daniel. "Bengals' Vontaze Burfict gets contract extension". Sports Illustrated. Archived from the original on October 11, 2022. Retrieved October 11, 2022.
  101. Cosentino, Dom (October 23, 2017). "Surprise, Vontaze Burfict Kicked A Guy". Deadspin. Archived from the original on October 23, 2017. Retrieved October 23, 2017.
  102. Terell, Katherine (October 23, 2017). "Source: Bengals' Vontaze Burfict may be fined but won't be suspended". ESPN. Archived from the original on October 23, 2017. Retrieved October 23, 2017.
  103. "Vontaze Burfict fined $12K for kicking Roosevelt Nix". NFL. Archived from the original on October 28, 2017. Retrieved October 27, 2017.
  104. "Vontaze Burfict ejected for contact with official". NFL. November 12, 2017. Archived from the original on November 13, 2017. Retrieved November 12, 2017.
  105. Sessler, Marc (November 13, 2017). "Vontaze Burfict won't face ban for flag in Bengals' loss". NFL. Archived from the original on November 13, 2017. Retrieved November 13, 2017.
  106. 1 2 Dubin, Jared (October 13, 2018). "JuJu Smith-Schuster isn't worried about revenge from Bengals for Vontaze Burfict hit". CBSSports.com. Archived from the original on October 11, 2022. Retrieved October 11, 2022.
  107. Patra, Kevin. "JuJu Smith-Schuster, George Iloka each suspended for one game". NFL. Archived from the original on December 6, 2017. Retrieved December 5, 2017.
  108. Clark, Dave (December 14, 2017). "JuJu Smith-Schuster defends Vontaze Burfict hit, says he'll still play physical". Cincinnati Enquirer. Archived from the original on January 24, 2021. Retrieved December 6, 2018.
  109. RotoWire Staff (January 30, 2018). "Bengals' Vontaze Burfict: Misses six games in 2017". CBSSports.com. Archived from the original on December 7, 2018. Retrieved December 6, 2018.
  110. Bergman, Jeremy (January 8, 2018). "Bengals hire Teryl Austin as defensive coordinator". NFL.com. Archived from the original on December 1, 2018. Retrieved December 6, 2018.
  111. Sessler, Marc (March 16, 2018). "Vontaze Burfict facing 4-game suspension for PED violation". NFL. Archived from the original on March 16, 2018. Retrieved March 16, 2018.
  112. Knoblauch, Austin (March 31, 2018). "Vontaze Burfict's future with Bengals safe -- for now". NFL. Archived from the original on April 1, 2018. Retrieved April 1, 2018.
  113. Roling, Chris (October 14, 2018). "Vontaze Burfict recklessly hit Antonio Brown and teammate Jessie Bates". Bengals Wire. Archived from the original on October 11, 2022. Retrieved October 11, 2022.
  114. Bergman, Jeremy (October 20, 2018). "Vontaze Burfict fined $112k for hits vs. Steelers". NFL. Archived from the original on October 21, 2018. Retrieved October 21, 2018.
  115. Sheeran, John (October 22, 2018). "Bengals LB Vontaze Burfict suffers hip injury vs. Chiefs". cincyjungle.com. Archived from the original on December 7, 2018. Retrieved December 6, 2018.
  116. Patra, Kevin (March 18, 2019). "Bengals releasing Vontaze Burfict after seven seasons". NFL.com. Archived from the original on March 19, 2019. Retrieved March 19, 2019.
  117. "Raiders sign linebacker Vontaze Burfict". Raiders.com. March 19, 2019. Archived from the original on March 21, 2019. Retrieved March 20, 2019.
  118. "Raiders beat Broncos 24-16 in 1st game after Brown's release". www.espn.com. September 9, 2019. Archived from the original on September 10, 2019. Retrieved September 9, 2019.
  119. "Raiders' Vontaze Burfict suspended for rest of season". ESPN.com. September 30, 2019. Archived from the original on September 30, 2019. Retrieved September 30, 2019.
  120. Austro, Ben (September 30, 2019). "Vontaze Burfict suspended for the rest of the 2019 season, the longest for an on-field infraction". Football Zebras. Archived from the original on September 30, 2019. Retrieved September 30, 2019.
  121. "Raiders' Vontaze Burfict has season-long suspension upheld". ESPN. October 9, 2019. Archived from the original on December 8, 2019. Retrieved November 18, 2019.
  122. Reed, Jesse (December 30, 2019). "Vontaze Burfict suspension lifted, per NFL transaction wire". SportsNaut. Archived from the original on January 1, 2020. Retrieved January 20, 2020.
  123. Pelissero, Tom (March 12, 2020). "Vontaze Burfict plans to change, continue NFL career in 2020". www.nfl.com. Archived from the original on October 20, 2020. Retrieved October 16, 2020.
  124. 1 2 Dillon, Dennis (April 20, 2012). "Burfict working hard to overcome bad reputation, plummeting stock". SI.com. Archived from the original on August 2, 2018. Retrieved August 2, 2018.
  125. 1 2 Roenigk, Alyssa (April 23, 2012). "ASU linebacker Vontaze Burfict is draft's most misunderstood player". ESPN The Magazine. Archived from the original on April 25, 2012. Retrieved April 26, 2012.
  126. "Vontaze Burfict arrested on battery charge in Nevada". ESPN. December 5, 2020. Archived from the original on December 5, 2020. Retrieved December 5, 2020.
  127. 1 2 "Vontaze Burfict 'Secret Pizza' Arrest Video Shows NFL Star Sobbing Outside Of Casino". TMZ. Archived from the original on September 29, 2022. Retrieved September 29, 2022.
  128. Radio, N. T. S. "JPEGMAFIA 28th March 2022". NTS Radio. Archived from the original on March 30, 2023. Retrieved March 30, 2023.
This article is issued from Wikipedia. The text is licensed under Creative Commons - Attribution - Sharealike. Additional terms may apply for the media files.