Vontaze Burfict

{{Short description|American football player (born 1990)}} {{Redirect|Burfict|the song by JPEGMafia and Danny Brown|Scaring the Hoes}} {{good article}} {{Use American English|date=May 2023}} {{Use mdy dates|date=March 2024}} {{Infobox college coach | name = Vontaze Burfict | image = Vontaze Burfict 2015.JPG | alt = | caption = Burfict with the Cincinnati Bengals in 2015 | current_title = Defensive analyst | current_team = UNLV Rebels | current_conference = MWC | current_record = | contract = | birth_date = {{Birth date and age|1990|9|24|mf=y}} | birth_place = Los Angeles, California, U.S. | height = 6'1 | death_date = | death_place = | alma_mater = | player_years1 = 2009–2011 | player_team1 = Arizona State | player_years2 = 2012–2018 | player_team2 = Cincinnati Bengals | player_years3 = 2019 | player_team3 = Oakland Raiders | player_positions = Linebacker | coach_years1 = 2025–present | coach_team1 = UNLV (Defensive analyst) | admin_years1 = | admin_team1 = | overall_record = | bowl_record = | tournament_record = | championships = | awards = * Second-team All-Pro (2013) * Pro Bowl (2013) * NFL combined tackles leader (2013) * First-team All-American (2010) * Second-team All-Pac-10 (2010) * Pac-10 Defensive Freshman of the Year (2009) | coaching_records = | CFBHOF_year = | CFBHOF_id = | BASKHOF_year = | BASKHOF_id = | CBBASKHOF_year = | CBASEHOF_year = | WBHOF = | FIBA_HOF_player = | uslaxhof_year = | canlaxhof = | nllhof = | medaltemplates = | show-medals = | module = | module2 = }}

'''Vontaze DeLeon Burfict Jr.''' ({{IPAc-en|ˈ|v|ɒ|n|t|ɛ|z|_|ˈ|b|ɜːr|f|ɪ|k|t}} {{respell|VON|tez|_|BUR|fikt}};<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.bengals.com/team/roster/vontaze-burfict/941b89df-2666-4d9f-810e-9b889ba417eb/|title=Vontaze Burfict|website=Cincinnati Bengals|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120508022255/http://www.bengals.com/team/roster/Vontaze-Burfict/941b89df-2666-4d9f-810e-9b889ba417eb|archive-date=May 8, 2012}}</ref> born September 24, 1990) is an American former professional football linebacker who played in the National Football League (NFL) for eight seasons, 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 until an unimpressive NFL Combine performance and character concerns led to him not being selected.<ref name="Prisco2012early" /><ref name="Pauline2012early" /><ref name="Reuter2012early" /> He was signed as an undrafted free agent by the Bengals, where he spent his first seven seasons.<ref name="NFL.com">{{cite news|url=https://www.nfl.com/news/undrafted-lb-burfict-gets-chance-with-bengals-09000d5d82906d4c|title=Undrafted LB Burfict gets chance with Bengals|work=NFL.com|date=May 11, 2012|access-date=September 16, 2022|archive-date=September 16, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220916040729/https://www.nfl.com/news/undrafted-lb-burfict-gets-chance-with-bengals-09000d5d82906d4c|url-status=live}}</ref> In his final season, he was a member of the Oakland Raiders.

Burfict led the Bengals in tackles during his rookie season and earned Pro Bowl honors in 2013.<ref name="ESPN130103">{{Cite web |last=McTigue |first=John |date=January 3, 2013 |title=Burfict's impact on Bengals is unmatched |url=https://www.espn.com/blog/statsinfo/post/_/id/59227/burficts-impact-on-bengals-is-unmatched |access-date=October 28, 2022 |website=ESPN.com |language=en |archive-date=October 28, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221028180538/https://www.espn.com/blog/statsinfo/post/_/id/59227/burficts-impact-on-bengals-is-unmatched |url-status=live }}</ref> He also incited controversy throughout his career for frequently violating player safety rules, which caused him to be suspended for 22 games due to 15 separate incidents and accumulate more than $5.36 million in fines and forfeited salary, approximately {{Percentage|5367803|35136874|2}} of his $35.14 million in career earnings.<ref>{{cite web| title=Vontaze Burfict, NFL's dirtiest player, gets himself ejected and imitates Johnny Manziel| url=https://sports.yahoo.com/vontaze-burfict-nfls-dirtiest-player-gets-ejected-192302643.html| access-date=January 20, 2018| website=yahoo.com| first=Frank| last=Schwab| date=November 12, 2017| archive-date=January 21, 2018| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180121000028/https://www.yahoo.com/amphtml/sports/vontaze-burfict-nfls-dirtiest-player-gets-ejected-192302643.html| url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web| title=Vontaze Burfict, Football's Dirtiest Player, Signs $38.68 Million Extension| url=http://thebiglead.com/2017/09/07/vontaze-burfict-footballs-dirtiest-player-signs-38-68-million-extension/| access-date=January 20, 2018| website=thebiglead.com| first=Ryan| last=Phillips| date=September 7, 2017| archive-date=January 21, 2018| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180121071756/http://thebiglead.com/2017/09/07/vontaze-burfict-footballs-dirtiest-player-signs-38-68-million-extension/| url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web| title=Spotrac.com: Vontaze Burfict fines| url=https://www.spotrac.com/nfl/oakland-raiders/vontaze-burfict-10100/fines/| access-date=January 20, 2018| publisher=Spotrac.com| archive-date=May 1, 2019| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190501212641/https://www.spotrac.com/nfl/oakland-raiders/vontaze-burfict-10100/fines/| url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=October 1, 2019 |title=As Vontaze Burfict appeals suspension, NFLPA should look to keep him banned |url=https://sports.yahoo.com/as-vontaze-burfict-appeals-suspension-nflpa-should-look-to-keep-him-banned-not-fight-for-a-return-035514013.html |access-date=November 25, 2023 |website=Yahoo Sports |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Connolly |first=Oliver |date=October 1, 2019 |title=Vontaze Burfict's history of violence proved too much even for the NFL |language=en-GB |work=The Guardian |url=https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2019/oct/01/vontaze-burfict-suspension-nfl-tackles |access-date=November 25, 2023 |issn=0261-3077}}</ref> Burfict only played four games as a Raider before being suspended for a helmet-to-helmet hit. The 12-game suspension is the longest on-field suspension in NFL history.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Mather |first=Victor |date=September 30, 2019 |title=Vontaze Burfict Suspended for the Rest of the N.F.L. Season |language=en-US |work=The New York Times |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2019/09/30/sports/football/vontaze-burfict-suspension-hit.html |access-date=November 25, 2023 |issn=0362-4331}}</ref> In 2025, Burfict joined the UNLV Rebels as a defensive analyst.

==Early life== 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.<ref>{{cite web |last=Halley |first=Jim |date=December 22, 2008 |title=Fort Lauderdale's Aquinas finishes season atop Super 25 |url=https://www.usatoday.com/sports/preps/football/poll/2008-super25.htm |newspaper=USA Today |access-date=September 17, 2017 |archive-date=May 4, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120504045204/http://www.usatoday.com/sports/preps/football/poll/2008-super25.htm |url-status=live }}</ref> 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''.<ref>{{cite web |last=O'Shea |first=Michael |date=January 25, 2009 |title=Meet PARADE's All-America High School Football Team |newspaper=Parade |url=http://www.parade.com/news/all-america/2009/parade-all-america-high-school-football-team.html |access-date=August 3, 2009 |archive-date=September 1, 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090901205816/http://www.parade.com/news/all-america/2009/parade-all-america-high-school-football-team.html |url-status=live }}</ref>

Burfict missed almost all of his sophomore season due to academic problems.<ref>{{cite web |last=Crabtree |first=Jeremy |date=November 4, 2007 |title=Junior LB makes the grades, delivers impact |url=https://www.usatoday.com/sports/recruiting/football/west/2007-10-30-west.htm |newspaper=USA Today |access-date=September 17, 2017 |archive-date=August 7, 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090807044511/http://www.usatoday.com/sports/recruiting/football/west/2007-10-30-west.htm |url-status=live }}</ref> 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.<ref>{{cite web |last=Halley |first=Jim |date=December 26, 2007 |title=Miami Northwestern crowned Super 25 champion |url=https://www.usatoday.com/sports/preps/football/poll/2007-super25.htm |newspaper=USA Today |access-date=September 17, 2017 |archive-date=May 12, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120512130647/http://www.usatoday.com/sports/preps/football/poll/2007-super25.htm |url-status=live }}</ref>

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.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Rivals.com inside linebackers 2009 |url=https://rivals.rivals.com/position_rankings/Football/2009/ILB |access-date=October 28, 2022 |website=rivals.rivals.com |archive-date=October 28, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221028170528/https://rivals.rivals.com/position_rankings/Football/2009/ILB |url-status=live }}</ref>

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.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/raiders/2019/10/02/nfl-vontaze-burficts-season-ban-over-hit-not-surprise-family/3839549002/|title=Vontaze Burfict has been playing this way 'since he was a little kid'|author1=Josh Peter|publisher=USA Today|date=October 2, 2019|access-date=November 18, 2019|archive-date=December 26, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191226224640/https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/raiders/2019/10/02/nfl-vontaze-burficts-season-ban-over-hit-not-surprise-family/3839549002/|url-status=live}}</ref> 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.<ref>{{cite news |last=Pearson |first=Zack |date=November 5, 2021 |title=USC's Matt Barkley was one of the first to realize Vontaze Burfict played dirty |publisher=USA Today |url=https://trojanswire.usatoday.com/2021/11/05/uscs-matt-barkley-was-one-of-the-first-to-realize-vontaze-burfict-played-dirty/ |access-date=September 16, 2022 |archive-date=September 16, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220916042455/https://trojanswire.usatoday.com/2021/11/05/uscs-matt-barkley-was-one-of-the-first-to-realize-vontaze-burfict-played-dirty/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last=Holmes |first=Baxter |date=September 21, 2011 |title=Arizona State's Vontaze Burfict presents a devil of a challenge for opponents |url=https://www.latimes.com/sports/la-xpm-2011-sep-21-la-sp-0922-vontaze-burfict-20110922-story.html |work=Los Angeles Times |access-date=September 16, 2022 |archive-date=September 16, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220916042454/https://www.latimes.com/sports/la-xpm-2011-sep-21-la-sp-0922-vontaze-burfict-20110922-story.html |url-status=live }}</ref>

{{College athlete recruit start|40=yes|collapse=no|year=2008}} {{College athlete recruit entry | recruit = Vontaze Burfict | position = LB | hometown = Corona, California | highschool = Centennial High School (CA) | feet = 6 | inches = 2 | weight = 245 | 40 = 4.6 | commitdate = February 4, 2009 | scout stars = 5 | rivals stars = 5 | espn grade = 85 }} {{College athlete recruit end | year = 2009 | rivals ref title = Arizona State Football Commitments | scout ref title = 2009 Arizona State Football Commits | espn ref title = ESPN | rivals school = arizonastate | scout s = 43 | espn schoolid = 9 | scout overall = 1 (MLB) | rivals overall = 1 (ILB), 2 (CA) | espn overall = 1 (LB) | access-date = March 17, 2012 }}

==College career== [[File:Vontaze Burfict vs Matt Barkley 2011 3411.jpg|thumb|alt=Burfict pointing at Matt Barkley prior to a play|Burfict (left) pointing at USC Trojans quarterback Matt Barkley in 2011. The two had a long-standing rivalry since high school.]] Burfict originally committed to USC but eventually switched to Arizona State on National Signing Day.<ref>{{cite web |last=Sondheimer |first=Eric |date=February 4, 2009 |title=ASU gets big-time recruit in linebacker Burfict |newspaper=Los Angeles Times |url=http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/sports_blog/2009/02/asu-gets-big-ti.html |access-date=August 3, 2009 |archive-date=March 12, 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090312084453/http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/sports_blog/2009/02/asu-gets-big-ti.html |url-status=live }}</ref> He joined Arizona State's 2009 recruiting class that included three of his high school teammates.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.statepress.com/archive/node/4268|archive-url=https://archive.today/20130203032412/http://www.statepress.com/archive/node/4268|url-status=dead|archive-date=February 3, 2013|title=ASU adds wide receiver to recruiting class|access-date=December 4, 2012|date=February 11, 2009|work=State Press|author=Kosmider, Nick}}</ref> 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.<ref>{{cite web |last=Metcalfe |first=Jeff |date=July 18, 2009 |title=HS coach 'relatively optimistic' about Burfict qualifying |newspaper=The Arizona Republic |url=http://www.azcentral.com/members/Blog/jeffmetcalfe/58058 |access-date=August 3, 2009 |archive-date=January 10, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230110043624/https://help.azcentral.com/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Sun Devils coach Dennis Erickson, who compared Burfict to Ray Lewis,<ref name="BordowEVT">{{cite web |last=Bordow |first=Scott |date=August 15, 2009 |title=Burfict has perfect linebacker philosophy |newspaper=East Valley Tribune |url=http://www.eastvalleytribune.com/story/143069 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090818193908/http://www.eastvalleytribune.com/story/143069 |archive-date=August 18, 2009 }}</ref> expected him to be academically eligible for enrollment.<ref>{{cite web |last=Metcalfe |first=Jeff |date=August 13, 2009 |title=ASU expects Burfict to be eligible |newspaper=The Arizona Republic |url=http://www.azcentral.com/sports/asu/articles/2009/08/13/20090813asuburfict.html |access-date=August 19, 2009 |archive-date=January 10, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230110043624/https://help.azcentral.com/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Burfict did qualify on time for the 2009 football season.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Miller |first=Ted |date=September 5, 2009 |title=Arizona State's Burfict ruled eligible |url=https://www.espn.com/blog/pac12/post/_/id/2279/arizona-states-burfict-ruled-eligible |access-date=October 28, 2022 |website=ESPN.com |language=en |archive-date=October 28, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221028170531/https://www.espn.com/blog/pac12/post/_/id/2279/arizona-states-burfict-ruled-eligible |url-status=live }}</ref>

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.<ref>{{cite web |last=Miller |first=Ted |date=October 20, 2009 |title=Midseason review: Arizona State |work=ESPN.com |url=https://www.espn.com/blog/pac10/post/_/id/4209/midseason-review-arizona-state |access-date=October 23, 2009 |archive-date=October 26, 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091026191431/http://espn.go.com/blog/pac10/post/_/id/4209/midseason-review-arizona-state |url-status=live }}</ref> 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.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://cfn.scout.com/2/927274.html |last=Cirminiello |first=Richard |title=2009 CFN All-Freshman Team: Defense & Special Teams |date=December 8, 2009 |work=College Football News |access-date=March 10, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131219011540/http://cfn.scout.com/2/927274.html |archive-date=December 19, 2013 |url-status=dead }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.sportswriters.net/fwaa/news/2009/allamerica100107.html |title=2009 AON Insurance/FWAA Freshman All-America Team |work=FWAA |date=January 7, 2010 |access-date=February 3, 2010 |archive-date=February 14, 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100214174737/http://www.sportswriters.net/fwaa/news/2009/allamerica100107.html |url-status=live }}</ref> He was also honored as the Pacific-10 Conference Defensive Freshman of the Year.<ref>{{Cite web |date=December 4, 2018 |title=Merlin Robertson Named Pac-12 Defensive Freshman of the Year |url=https://thesundevils.com/news/2018/12/4/football-merlin-robertson-named-pac-12-defensive-freshman-of-the-year.aspx |access-date=October 28, 2022 |website=Arizona State University Athletics |language=en |archive-date=October 28, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221028170529/https://thesundevils.com/news/2018/12/4/football-merlin-robertson-named-pac-12-defensive-freshman-of-the-year.aspx |url-status=live }}</ref>

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.<ref name="news.asu.edu">{{Cite web |date=June 23, 2010 |title=ASU's Burfict named First-Team All-American |url=https://news.asu.edu/20201228-asus-burfict-named-first-team-all-american |access-date=October 28, 2022 |website=ASU News |language=en |archive-date=October 28, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221028180550/https://news.asu.edu/20201228-asus-burfict-named-first-team-all-american |url-status=live }}</ref>

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.<ref>{{Cite news |url=http://www.azcentral.com/sports/asu/articles/2010/10/05/20101005arizona-state-football-burfict-benched.html |title=Dennis Erickson takes Vontaze Burfict out of Arizona State starting lineup vs. Washington |first=Jeff |last=Metcalfe |date=October 5, 2010 |newspaper=The Arizona Republic |access-date=October 7, 2010 |archive-date=January 10, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230110043625/https://help.azcentral.com/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=VoxMediaUser136261 |date=October 6, 2010 |title=ASU benches the monster |url=https://www.uwdawgpound.com/2010/10/6/1734061/asu-benches-the-monster |access-date=October 28, 2022 |website=UW Dawg Pound |language=en |archive-date=October 28, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221028180541/https://www.uwdawgpound.com/2010/10/6/1734061/asu-benches-the-monster |url-status=live }}</ref> 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.<ref name=":1" /> Two plays later, Stanford scored what turned out to be the winning touchdown.<ref name=":1">{{Cite news |url=http://www.azcentral.com/sports/asu/articles/2010/11/13/20101113asu-vontaze-burfict-mistakes.html |title=ASU football team sees spirited effort derailed by Vontaze Burfict's mistakes |work=The Arizona Republic |date=November 13, 2010 |first=Paola |last=Boivin |access-date=November 27, 2010 |archive-date=January 10, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230110043644/https://help.azcentral.com/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

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.<ref name="news.asu.edu"/> Burfict was ASU's first first-team All-American since Terrell Suggs.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Talbot |first=Damond |date=April 23, 2012 |title=All Eyez on Me - Vontaze Burfict, Tell All Story |url=https://www.sbnation.com/2012/4/23/2968478/all-eyez-on-me-vontaze-burfict-tell-all-story |access-date=October 28, 2022 |website=SBNation.com |language=en |archive-date=October 28, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221028170528/https://www.sbnation.com/2012/4/23/2968478/all-eyez-on-me-vontaze-burfict-tell-all-story |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Hinton |first=Matt |date=May 11, 2011 |title=Coming Attractions: Vontaze Burfict, Arizona State's loose cannon |url=https://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/ncaaf-dr-saturday/coming-attractions-vontaze-burfict-arizona-state-loose-cannon-152717188.html |access-date=October 28, 2022 |website=sports.yahoo.com |language=en-US |archive-date=October 28, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221028170528/https://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/ncaaf-dr-saturday/coming-attractions-vontaze-burfict-arizona-state-loose-cannon-152717188.html |url-status=live }}</ref>

With senior cornerback Omar Bolden out for the season with a knee injury, Burfict was expected to take over as the leader of the Sun Devils defense in 2011<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.azcentral.com/sports/asu/articles/2011/04/21/20110421asu-football-vontaze-burfict-leader.html |title=ASU's Vontaze Burfict embracing leadership role |newspaper=The Arizona Republic |date=April 21, 2011 |first=Doug |last=Haller |access-date=May 3, 2011 |archive-date=January 10, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230110043625/https://help.azcentral.com/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.cbssports.com/collegefootball/story/15084294/burfict-timing-arizona-state-can-climb-if-backer-grows-up |title=Burfict timing? Arizona State can climb if 'backer grows up |work=CBS Sports |date=May 20, 2011 |first=Dennis |last=Dodd |access-date=May 23, 2011 |archive-date=October 16, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121016092526/http://www.cbssports.com/collegefootball/story/15084294/burfict-timing-arizona-state-can-climb-if-backer-grows-up |url-status=live }}</ref> 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.<ref>{{Cite web |date=October 10, 2022 |title=Vontaze Burfict 2011 Game Log |url=https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/players/vontaze-burfict-1/gamelog/2011/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221011012310/https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/players/vontaze-burfict-1/gamelog/2011/ |archive-date=October 11, 2022 |website=sports-reference.com |access-date=October 11, 2022 }}</ref> In his Arizona State career, Burfict recorded 22 personal fouls in 37 games.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Haller |first=Doug |date=October 3, 2019 |title=Looking back at the Raiders' Vontaze Burfict during his college years at Arizona State |url=https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/1256359/2019/10/03/looking-back-at-the-raiders-vontaze-burfict-during-his-college-years-at-arizona-state/ |access-date=October 28, 2022 |website=The Athletic |language=en |archive-date=October 28, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221028170532/https://theathletic.com/1256359/2019/10/03/looking-back-at-the-raiders-vontaze-burfict-during-his-college-years-at-arizona-state/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Burfict decided to forgo his senior year at Arizona State to pursue a career in the NFL.<ref>{{cite news |last=Schad |first=Joe |date=January 3, 2012 |title=Vontaze Burfict enters NFL draft |work=ESPN |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/draft2012/story/_/id/7420118/vontaze-burfict-arizona-state-sun-devils-enters-nfl-draft |access-date=August 1, 2012 |archive-date=April 21, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120421052229/http://espn.go.com/nfl/draft2012/story/_/id/7420118/vontaze-burfict-arizona-state-sun-devils-enters-nfl-draft |url-status=live }}</ref>

==Professional career== ===Pre-draft=== 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.<ref name="Prisco2012early">{{cite news |url=http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/story/15014424/flash-forward-top-32-picks-for-the-2012-nfl-draft |title=Flash forward: Top 32 picks for the 2012 NFL Draft |date=May 1, 2011 |work=CBSSports.com |first=Pete |last=Prisco |access-date=February 29, 2012 |archive-date=September 28, 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110928011232/http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/story/15014424/flash-forward-top-32-picks-for-the-2012-nfl-draft |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="Pauline2012early">{{cite magazine |url=http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2011/football/nfl/05/03/2012.prospects/ |title=Stanford's Luck headlines early look at top 2012 draft prospects |magazine=Sports Illustrated |date=May 3, 2011 |first=Tony |last=Pauline |access-date=February 29, 2012 |archive-date=May 7, 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110507015348/http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2011/football/nfl/05/03/2012.prospects/ |url-status=dead }}</ref><ref name="Reuter2012early">{{cite news |url=http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/story/15029593/mock-draft-first-look-with-luck-and-heels |title=2012 mock draft: First look with Luck and Heels |work=CBSSports.com |date=May 4, 2011 |first=Chad |last=Reuter |access-date=February 29, 2012 |archive-date=May 22, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120522225342/http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/story/15029593/mock-draft-first-look-with-luck-and-heels |url-status=live }}</ref> 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".<ref>{{cite news |url=http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2011/writers/tony_pauline/10/24/top.50/ |title=Andrew Luck, Trent Richardson high in midseason NFL draft rankings |date=October 24, 2011 |work=SI.com |first=Tony |last=Pauline |access-date=March 3, 2012 |archive-date=October 27, 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111027214805/http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2011/writers/tony_pauline/10/24/top.50/ |url-status=dead }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last=Keeley |first=Sean |date=January 3, 2012 |title=NFL Draft 2012: Arizona State LB Vontaze Burfict Declares |url=https://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/2012/1/3/2680511/vontaze-burfict-arizona-state-nfl-draft-statement |access-date=December 5, 2018 |website=SBnation.com |archive-date=December 6, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181206001903/https://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/2012/1/3/2680511/vontaze-burfict-arizona-state-nfl-draft-statement |url-status=live }}</ref> 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.<ref name=":2">{{Cite web |last=Denny |first=Brad |date=February 27, 2012 |title=2012 NFL Combine: ASU LB Vontaze Burfict Results & Analysis |url=https://www.houseofsparky.com/2012/2/27/2828145/vontaze-burfict-nfl-combine-results-analysis |access-date=October 28, 2022 |website=House of Sparky |language=en |archive-date=October 28, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221028170529/https://www.houseofsparky.com/2012/2/27/2828145/vontaze-burfict-nfl-combine-results-analysis |url-status=live }}</ref> {{external media | video1 = [http://www.nfl.com/videos/nfl-combine/09000d5d827c4278/2012-Combine-workout-Vontaze-Burfict 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.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://rob-rang.blogs.cbssports.com/mcc/blogs/entry/13682485/35011522 |title=Lackluster Combine could push Burfict to Day 3 |work=CBS Sports |first=Rob |last=Rang |date=February 27, 2012 |access-date=March 1, 2012 |archive-date=September 27, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150927022400/http://rob-rang.blogs.cbssports.com/mcc/blogs/entry/13682485/35011522 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2012/writers/don_banks/02/29/combine.awards/index.html?xid=si_nfl |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120714030933/http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2012/writers/don_banks/02/29/combine.awards/index.html?xid=si_nfl |url-status=dead |archive-date=July 14, 2012 |title=Andrew Luck, Stephen Hill, Vontaze Burfict make their mark on NFL combine |first=Don |last=Banks |work=SI.com |date=February 29, 2012 }}</ref><ref name=":3">{{Cite web |last=Katzowitz |first=Josh |date=February 20, 2014 |title=NFL combine: Vontaze Burfict's 2012 debacle drops him out of draft |url=https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/nfl-combine-vontaze-burficts-2012-debacle-drops-him-out-of-draft/ |access-date=October 11, 2022 |website=CBSSports.com |language=en |archive-date=October 11, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221011012306/https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/nfl-combine-vontaze-burficts-2012-debacle-drops-him-out-of-draft/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Burfict also finished last among linebackers in the broad jump and finished second to last among linebackers in the vertical jump.<ref name=":2" /><ref name=":3" /> 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".<ref>{{cite news |url=http://arizonasports.com/44/1515612/ASU-Pro-Day-Burfict-average-Bolden-100-healthy |title=ASU Pro Day: Burfict 'average', Bolden '100% healthy' |first=Vince |last=Marotta |date=March 16, 2012 |work=Arizona Sports |access-date=March 17, 2012 |archive-date=March 25, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120325180036/http://arizonasports.com/44/1515612/ASU-Pro-Day-Burfict-average-Bolden-100-healthy |url-status=live }}</ref> 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.<ref>{{cite web |title=Vontaze Burfict, JayRon Hosley fail drug test before NFL draft |url=http://www.nfl.com/draft/story/09000d5d82895e07/article/vontaze-burfict-jayron-hosley-fail-drug-test-before-nfl-draft |access-date=December 5, 2018 |website=NFL.com |date=April 25, 2012 |archive-date=December 6, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181206001910/http://www.nfl.com/draft/story/09000d5d82895e07/article/vontaze-burfict-jayron-hosley-fail-drug-test-before-nfl-draft |url-status=live }}</ref> Burfict later stated during an interview with Scout.com that he admitted using marijuana to NFL general managers.<ref>{{cite web |title=NFL draft prospect Vontaze Burfict admits to smoking pot |url=http://www.nfl.com/draft/story/09000d5d8289b71c/article/nfl-draft-prospect-vontaze-burfict-admits-to-smoking-pot |access-date=December 5, 2018 |website=NFL.com |date=April 25, 2012 |archive-date=December 6, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181206001958/http://www.nfl.com/draft/story/09000d5d8289b71c/article/nfl-draft-prospect-vontaze-burfict-admits-to-smoking-pot |url-status=live }}</ref> At the conclusion of the pre-draft process, Burfict was projected to be a seventh round pick by NFL draft experts and scouts.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Florio |first=Mike |date=April 27, 2012 |title=Despite red flags, Burfict is expected to go in round seven |url=https://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2012/04/27/despite-red-flags-burfict-is-expected-to-go-in-round-seven/ |access-date=October 28, 2022 |website=ProFootballTalk |language=en-US |archive-date=October 28, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221028180541/https://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2012/04/27/despite-red-flags-burfict-is-expected-to-go-in-round-seven/ |url-status=live }}</ref> 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.<ref>{{cite web |title=NFL Vontaze Burfict -ESPN |url=http://espn.com/nfl/draftcard?playerId=27475&src=desktop |access-date=December 5, 2018 |website=ESPN.com}}{{dead link|date=July 2024|bot=medic}}{{cbignore|bot=medic}}</ref><ref name="scout">{{Cite web |url=https://draftscout.com/dsprofile.php?PlayerId=89437&DraftYear=2012 |title=2012 Draft Scout Vontaze Burfict, Arizona State NFL Draft Scout College Football Profile |website=DraftScout.com |access-date=December 5, 2018 |archive-date=January 10, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230110043631/https://draftscout.com/dsprofile.php?PlayerId=89437&DraftYear=2012 |url-status=live }}</ref>

{{NFL predraft | height ft = 6 | height in = 1 3/8 | weight = 248 | dash = 5.09 | ten split = 1.78 | twenty split = 2.96 | shuttle = 4.56 | cone drill = 7.51 | vertical = 30 | broad ft = 8 | broad in = 8 | bench = 16 | wonderlic = | arm span = 31 1/4 | hand span = 9 3/4 | note = All values from NFL Combine & Arizona State Pro Day<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.nfl.com/prospects/vontaze-burfict/32004255-5204-4491-1577-9f1b0b77d49e |title=Vontaze Burfict Draft and Combine Prospect Profile |website=NFL.com |access-date=December 4, 2018 |archive-date=August 15, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220815004807/https://www.nfl.com/prospects/vontaze-burfict/32004255-5204-4491-1577-9f1b0b77d49e |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="scout"/> }}

===Cincinnati Bengals=== ====2012 season==== 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.<ref>{{cite web |title=Vontaze Burfict, Bengals talking extension |url=https://www.nfl.com/news/vontaze-burfict-bengals-talking-contract-extension-0ap2000000342827 |access-date=December 5, 2018 |website=NFL.com |last=Patra |first=Kevin |date=April 22, 2012 |archive-date=December 6, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181206002040/http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap2000000342827/article/vontaze-burfict-bengals-talking-contract-extension |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="spotrac">{{cite web |title=Spotrac.com: Vontaze Burfict contract |url=https://www.spotrac.com/nfl/cincinnati-bengals/vontaze-burfict-10100/ |access-date=December 5, 2018 |website=Spotrac.com |archive-date=December 6, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181206002604/https://www.spotrac.com/nfl/cincinnati-bengals/vontaze-burfict-10100/ |url-status=live }}</ref> thumb|left|alt=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.<ref>{{cite web |title=Vontaze Burfict Ousts Roddrick Muckelroy on Cincinnati Bengals' Final Roster |url=https://bleacherreport.com/articles/1319605-vontaze-burfict-ousts-roddrick-muckelroy-on-cincinnati-bengals-final-roster |access-date=December 5, 2018 |website=BleacherReport.com |last=Hangst |first=Andrea |date=September 1, 2012 |archive-date=December 6, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181206001905/https://bleacherreport.com/articles/1319605-vontaze-burfict-ousts-roddrick-muckelroy-on-cincinnati-bengals-final-roster |url-status=live }}</ref>

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.<ref>{{cite web |title=Cincinnati Bengals: Thomas Howard's Injury Gives Vontaze Burfict Chance to Shine |url=https://bleacherreport.com/articles/1335610-thomas-howards-injury-gives-vontaze-burfict-chance-to-shine |access-date=December 5, 2018 |website=bleacherreport.com |last=Kruse |first=Zach |date=September 15, 2012 |archive-date=December 6, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181206053229/https://bleacherreport.com/articles/1335610-thomas-howards-injury-gives-vontaze-burfict-chance-to-shine |url-status=live }}</ref> 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.<ref>{{cite web |title=Cincinnati Bengals at Jacksonville Jaguars - September 30th, 2012 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201209300jax.htm |access-date=December 5, 2018 |website=Pro Football Reference |archive-date=December 6, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181206053248/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201209300jax.htm |url-status=live }}</ref> On December 30, 2012, Burfict collected a season-high 18 combined tackles (ten solo) as the Bengals defeated the Baltimore Ravens 23–17.<ref>{{cite web |title=NFL Player stats: Vontaze Burfict (2012) |url=https://www.nfl.com/players/vontaze-deleon-burfict/ |access-date=December 5, 2012 |website=NFL.com |archive-date=May 23, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200523183357/https://www.nfl.com/players/vontaze-deleon-burfict/ |url-status=live }}</ref> 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.<ref name="career">{{cite web |title=NFL Player stats: Vontaze Burfict (career) |url=http://www.nfl.com/player/vontazeburfict/2533058/careerstats |access-date=December 5, 2018 |website=NFL.com |archive-date=December 6, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181206053226/http://www.nfl.com/player/vontazeburfict/2533058/careerstats |url-status=live }}</ref> 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.{{r|ESPN130103}}

The Cincinnati Bengals finished second in the AFC North with a 10–6 record and earned a Wild Card berth.<ref>{{Cite web |title=2012 Cincinnati Bengals Rosters, Stats, Schedule, Team Draftees, Injury Reports |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/cin/2012.htm |access-date=October 28, 2022 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en |archive-date=November 11, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201111190352/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/cin/2012.htm |url-status=live }}</ref> 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.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Bengals vs. Texans - Box Score - January 5, 2013 - ESPN |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/boxscore/_/gameId/330105034 |access-date=October 28, 2022 |website=ESPN.com |language=en |archive-date=October 28, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221028170527/https://www.espn.com/nfl/boxscore/_/gameId/330105034 |url-status=live }}</ref>

====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.<ref>{{cite web |title=Ourlads.com: Cincinnati Bengals Depth Chart: 09/05/2013 |url=https://www.ourlads.com/nfldepthcharts/archive/150/CIN |access-date=December 5, 2018 |website=Ourlads.com |archive-date=December 6, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181206102240/https://www.ourlads.com/nfldepthcharts/archive/150/CIN |url-status=live }}</ref>

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.<ref>{{cite web |title=Cincinnati Bengals at Chicago Bears - September 8th, 2013 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201309080chi.htm |access-date=December 5, 2018 |website=Pro Football Reference |archive-date=November 13, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201113191259/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201309080chi.htm |url-status=live }}</ref> 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.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.nfl.com/news/vontaze-burfict-fined-31-000-for-two-week-3-incidents-0ap2000000251454 |title=Vontaze Burfict fined $31,000 for two Week 3 incidents |work=NFL.com |date=September 27, 2013 |access-date=October 22, 2013 |archive-date=October 23, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131023064252/http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap2000000251454/article/vontaze-burfict-fined-31000-for-two-week-3-incidents |url-status=live }}</ref> He was fined for a hit on a defenseless receiver (James Jones) and intentionally struck an opponent in the groin (Ryan Taylor).<ref>{{cite news |last=Jones |first=Lindsay H |date=September 27, 2013 |title=Bengals' Vontaze Burfict racks up $31K in Week 3 fines |newspaper=USA Today |url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/2013/09/27/week-3-nfl-fines-vontaze-burfict-antonio-brown-alex-henery/2884709/ |access-date=September 17, 2017 |archive-date=December 6, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181206102253/https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/2013/09/27/week-3-nfl-fines-vontaze-burfict-antonio-brown-alex-henery/2884709/ |url-status=live }}</ref> 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.<ref>{{cite web |title=Cleveland Browns at Cincinnati Bengals - November 17th, 2013 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201311170cin.htm |access-date=December 5, 2018 |website=Pro Football Reference |archive-date=December 6, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181206102230/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201311170cin.htm |url-status=live }}</ref> 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.<ref>{{cite web |title=2014 Pro Bowl: Complete Roster |url=http://www.nfl.com/probowl/story/0ap2000000304771/article/2014-pro-bowl-complete-roster |access-date=December 5, 2018 |website=NFL.com |date=December 26, 2012 |archive-date=March 22, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190322045321/http://www.nfl.com/probowl/story/0ap2000000304771/article/2014-pro-bowl-complete-roster |url-status=live }}</ref> 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.<ref name="career"/> 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.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.nfl.com/news/vontaze-burfict-earns-top-figure-in-performance-based-pay-0ap1000000152307|title=Vontaze Burfict earns top figure in 'Performance-Based Pay'|website=NFL.com|date=March 20, 2013|access-date=June 20, 2015|archive-date=June 20, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150620120337/http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap1000000152307/article/vontaze-burfict-earns-top-figure-in-performancebased-pay|url-status=live}}</ref>

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.<ref>{{cite web |title=NFL Player stats: Vontaze Burfict (2013) |url=http://www.nfl.com/player/vontazeburfict/2533058/gamelogs?season=2013 |access-date=December 5, 2018 |website=NFL.com |archive-date=December 6, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181206053247/http://www.nfl.com/player/vontazeburfict/2533058/gamelogs?season=2013 |url-status=live }}</ref>

====2014 season==== thumb|alt=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.<ref>{{cite web |title=Paul Guenther to run Cincinnati Bengals' defense |url=https://www.nfl.com/news/paul-guenther-to-run-cincinnati-bengals-defense-0ap2000000313765 |date=January 15, 2014 |access-date=December 5, 2018 |website=NFL.com |archive-date=December 6, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181206102223/http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap2000000313765/article/paul-guenther-to-run-cincinnati-bengals-defense |url-status=live }}</ref>

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.<ref name="spotrac"/><ref>{{cite web|last1=Coppinger|first1=Mike|title=Vontaze Burfict, Bengals reach long-term extension|url=https://www.nfl.com/news/vontaze-burfict-bengals-reach-long-term-extension-0ap3000000381250|website=NFL.com|access-date=March 10, 2018|date=August 20, 2014|archive-date=March 11, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180311081651/http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000381250/article/vontaze-burfict-bengals-reach-longterm-extension|url-status=live}}</ref> Head coach Marvin Lewis retained Burfict as the starting linebacker in 2014 alongside Rey Maualuga and Emmanuel Lamur.<ref>{{cite web |last=Dunn |first=Andrew |date=September 3, 2014 |title=Cincinnati Bengal 2014 Virtual Program: Depth Chart Analysis, X-Factors, More |url=https://bleacherreport.com/articles/2182680-cincinnati-bengal-2014-virtual-program-depth-chart-analysis-x-factors-more#slide8 |access-date=December 5, 2018 |website=bleacherreport.com |archive-date=August 4, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190804190226/https://bleacherreport.com/articles/2182680-cincinnati-bengal-2014-virtual-program-depth-chart-analysis-x-factors-more#slide8 |url-status=live }}</ref>

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).<ref>{{cite web |last=Wesseling |first=Chris |date=September 17, 2014 |title=Vontaze Burfict misses practice with concussion |url=https://www.nfl.com/news/vontaze-burfict-misses-practice-with-concussion-0ap3000000396304 |access-date=December 6, 2018 |website=NFL.com |archive-date=December 6, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181206194051/http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000396304/article/vontaze-burfict-misses-practice-with-concussion |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Bengals vs. Titans Inactives: Vontaze Burfict misses first NFL game |url=https://www.cincyjungle.com/2014/9/21/6684013/bengals-vs-titans-inactives-vontaze-burfict-nfl |access-date=December 6, 2018 |website=cincyjungle.com |last=Marcum |first=Jason |date=September 21, 2014 |archive-date=December 6, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181206235021/https://www.cincyjungle.com/2014/9/21/6684013/bengals-vs-titans-inactives-vontaze-burfict-nfl |url-status=live }}</ref> 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.<ref>{{cite web |last=Newton |first=David |date=October 13, 2014 |title=Greg Olsen calls out Vontaze Burfict |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/11696764/greg-olsen-carolina-panthers-says-vontaze-burfict-cincinnati-bengals-needs-disciplined-post-tackle-tactics |website=ESPN.com |access-date=October 15, 2014 |archive-date=October 15, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141015104357/http://espn.go.com/nfl/story/_/id/11696764/greg-olsen-carolina-panthers-says-vontaze-burfict-cincinnati-bengals-needs-disciplined-post-tackle-tactics |url-status=live }}</ref> On October 15, 2014, the NFL fined Burfict $25,000 for the ankle twisting incidents involving Olsen and Newton.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/11705286/nfl-fines-cincinnati-bengals-linebacker-vontaze-burfict-25000|title=Vontaze Burfict fined $25,000|work=ESPN.com|date=October 15, 2014|access-date=October 16, 2014|archive-date=October 16, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141016044003/http://espn.go.com/nfl/story/_/id/11705286/nfl-fines-cincinnati-bengals-linebacker-vontaze-burfict-25000|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Greg Olsen: Vontaze Burfict should be suspended |url=https://www.nfl.com/news/greg-olsen-vontaze-burfict-should-be-suspended-0ap3000000410463 |access-date=December 6, 2018 |website=NFL.com |date=October 13, 2014 |archive-date=December 6, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181206192621/http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000410463/article/greg-olsen-vontaze-burfict-should-be-suspended |url-status=live }}</ref> 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.<ref>{{cite web |title=Injury roundup: Vontaze Burfict undergoes knee surgery |url=https://www.nfl.com/news/injury-roundup-vontaze-burfict-undergoes-knee-surgery-0ap3000000419693 |access-date=December 6, 2018 |website=NFL.com |archive-date=December 6, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181206192619/http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000419693/article/injury-roundup-vontaze-burfict-undergoes-knee-surgery |url-status=live }}</ref> He was inactive for the next six games (Weeks 9–14) and was subsequently placed on injured reserve on December 9, 2014.<ref>{{cite web |title=Vontaze Burfict placed on IR, ending his season |url=https://www.cincinnati.com/story/blogs/2014/12/09/vontaze-burfict-placed-on-ir-his-season-ends/20149069/?from=new-cookie |access-date=December 6, 2018 |newspaper=Cincinnati Enquirer |date=December 9, 2014 |archive-date=August 6, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200806105359/https://www.cincinnati.com/story/blogs/2014/12/09/vontaze-burfict-placed-on-ir-his-season-ends/20149069/?from=new-cookie |url-status=live }}</ref> Burfict was limited to five games and five starts in 2014 and recorded 29 combined tackles (15 solo) and two pass deflections.<ref name="career"/>

====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.<ref>{{cite web |last=Wise |first=Brandon |date=January 26, 2015 |title=Bengals' Vontaze Burfict undergoes microfracture surgery |url=https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/bengals-vontaze-burfict-undergoes-microfracture-surgery/ |access-date=December 6, 2018 |website=cbssports.com |archive-date=December 6, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181206235256/https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/bengals-vontaze-burfict-undergoes-microfracture-surgery/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Bengals' Vontaze Burfict had microfracture surgery |url=https://www.nfl.com/news/bengals-vontaze-burfict-had-microfracture-surgery-0ap3000000463388 |access-date=December 6, 2018 |website=NFL.com |last=Rapoport |first=Ian |date=January 26, 2015 |archive-date=December 6, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181206235229/http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000463388/article/bengals-vontaze-burfict-had-microfracture-surgery |url-status=live }}</ref> On July 28, 2015, the Cincinnati Bengals placed Burfict on their physically unable to perform list.<ref>{{cite web |title=Bengals place Vontaze Burfict on PUP list |url=https://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2015/07/28/bengals-place-vontaze-burfict-on-pup-list/ |access-date=December 6, 2018 |website=profootballtalk.nbcsports.com |last=Alper |first=Josh |date=July 28, 2015 |archive-date=December 6, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181206235147/https://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2015/07/28/bengals-place-vontaze-burfict-on-pup-list/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Burfict remained on the list to begin the 2015 regular season.<ref>{{cite web |last=Owczarski |first=Jim |date=September 5, 2015 |title=Bengals notes: Vontaze Burfict to start year on PUP |url=https://www.cincinnati.com/story/sports/nfl/bengals/2015/09/05/bengals-vontaze-burfict--start-year--pup/71772922/ |access-date=December 6, 2018 |newspaper=Cincinnati Enquirer |archive-date=August 7, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200807045733/https://www.cincinnati.com/story/sports/nfl/bengals/2015/09/05/bengals-vontaze-burfict--start-year--pup/71772922/ |url-status=live }}</ref> On October 31, 2015, the Cincinnati Bengals activated Burfict from their PUP list and added him to their active roster.<ref>{{cite web |title=Bengals activate Vontaze Burfict from PUP list |url=https://www.nfl.com/news/bengals-activate-vontaze-burfict-from-pup-list-0ap3000000569262 |access-date=December 6, 2018 |website=NFL.com |last=Patra |first=Kevin |date=October 31, 2015 |archive-date=December 6, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181206235227/http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000569262/article/bengals-activate-vontaze-burfict-from-pup-list |url-status=live }}</ref> Upon joining the active roster, Burfict was named a starting linebacker along with A. J. Hawk and Rey Maualuga. His penchant for dirty hits and controversy resurfaced the very next day, during the Bengals’ Week 8 matchup with Pittsburgh, when he tackled Steelers’ halfback Le’Veon Bell so violently that he tore Bell's MCL and thereby ended his season.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Owczarski |first=Jim |title=Bengals notes: Burfict back with an edge, Steelers criticize him |url=https://www.cincinnati.com/story/sports/nfl/bengals/2015/11/02/bengals-vontaze-burfict-back-edge-steelers-criticize-leveon-bell-injury/75047064/ |access-date=October 28, 2022 |website=The Cincinnati Enquirer |date=November 2, 2015 |language=en-US |archive-date=May 21, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220521164247/https://www.cincinnati.com/story/sports/nfl/bengals/2015/11/02/bengals-vontaze-burfict-back-edge-steelers-criticize-leveon-bell-injury/75047064/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

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.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Wilson |first=Ryan |date=December 15, 2015 |title=Ben Roethlisberger: Vontaze Burfict intentionally dived at my legs |url=https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/ben-roethlisberger-vontaze-burfict-intentionally-dived-at-my-legs/ |access-date=October 28, 2022 |website=CBSSports.com |language=en |archive-date=October 28, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221028180539/https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/ben-roethlisberger-vontaze-burfict-intentionally-dived-at-my-legs/ |url-status=live }}</ref> 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.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Schwab |first=Frank |date=December 18, 2015 |title=Vontaze Burfict's cheap low hit on Big Ben costs him a heavy fine |url=http://news.yahoo.com/blogs/nfl-shutdown-corner/vontaze-burfict-s-cheap-low-hit-on-big-ben-costs-him-a-heavy-fine-144832644.html |access-date=October 28, 2022 |website=news.yahoo.com |language=en-US |archive-date=October 28, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221028180541/https://news.yahoo.com/blogs/nfl-shutdown-corner/vontaze-burfict-s-cheap-low-hit-on-big-ben-costs-him-a-heavy-fine-144832644.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last=Kelley |first=Jeanna |date=December 18, 2015 |title=Bengals LB Vontaze Burfict fined $69,454 vs. Steelers |url=https://www.sbnation.com/nfl/2015/12/16/10233786/bengals-vontaze-burfict-fined-hit-ben-roethlisberger-steelers |access-date=December 6, 2018 |website=SBNation.com |archive-date=December 6, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181206235127/https://www.sbnation.com/nfl/2015/12/16/10233786/bengals-vontaze-burfict-fined-hit-ben-roethlisberger-steelers |url-status=live }}</ref> 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.<ref name="career"/>

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 along with cornerback Chris Lewis-Harris. 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.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Bien |first=Louis |date=January 10, 2016 |title=Vontaze Burfict, Pacman Jones commit two personal fouls to give Steelers game-winner |url=https://www.sbnation.com/2016/1/9/10743832/vontaze-burfict-pacman-jones-awful-personal-fouls-hand-steelers-game |access-date=January 10, 2016 |website=SBNation.com |archive-date=January 12, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160112225150/http://www.sbnation.com/2016/1/9/10743832/vontaze-burfict-pacman-jones-awful-personal-fouls-hand-steelers-game |url-status=live }}</ref>

====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.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Coolong |first=Neal |date=January 12, 2016 |title=Vontaze Burfict suspended three games |url=https://steelerswire.usatoday.com/2016/01/11/vontaze-burfict-suspended-three-games/ |access-date=October 28, 2022 |website=Steelers Wire |language=en-US |archive-date=October 28, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221028180541/https://steelerswire.usatoday.com/2016/01/11/vontaze-burfict-suspended-three-games/ |url-status=live }}</ref> 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.<ref>{{cite web |title=Bengals release first depth chart of 2016 |url=https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/bengals-release-first-depth-chart-of-2016/ |access-date=December 6, 2018 |website=CBSSports.com |last=Tasman |first=Kyle |date=September 6, 2016 |archive-date=October 31, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181031005337/https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/bengals-release-first-depth-chart-of-2016/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Ourlads.com: Cincinnati Bengals Depth Chart: 10/01/2016 |url=https://www.ourlads.com/nfldepthcharts/archive/188/CIN |access-date=December 6, 2018 |website=Ourlads.com |archive-date=December 7, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181207045903/https://www.ourlads.com/nfldepthcharts/archive/188/CIN |url-status=live }}</ref> 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.<ref>{{cite web |title=Philadelphia Eagles at Cincinnati Bengals - December 4th, 2016 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201612040cin.htm |access-date=December 6, 2018 |website=Pro Football Reference |archive-date=January 13, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180113150223/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201612040cin.htm |url-status=live }}</ref> 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.<ref>{{cite web |title=Vontaze Burfict in NFL concussion protocol |url=https://www.cincyjungle.com/2016/12/21/14044930/vontaze-burfict-in-nfl-concussion-protocol |access-date=December 6, 2018 |website=cincyjungle.com |last=Toback |first=Rebecca |date=December 21, 2016 |archive-date=December 7, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181207045812/https://www.cincyjungle.com/2016/12/21/14044930/vontaze-burfict-in-nfl-concussion-protocol |url-status=live }}</ref> 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.<ref name="career"/>

====2017 season==== thumb|alt=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.<ref>{{cite web|title=Bengals' Vontaze Burfict facing 5-game suspension|url=http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000835920/article/bengals-vontaze-burfict-facing-5game-suspension|author=Orr, Conor|website=NFL.com|date=August 28, 2017|access-date=August 28, 2017|archive-date=August 28, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170828235135/http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000835920/article/bengals-vontaze-burfict-facing-5game-suspension|url-status=dead}}</ref> On August 30, 2017, Burfict appealed the suspension, and the league ultimately reduced the suspension to three games.<ref>{{cite web|title=Vontaze Burfict's suspension reduced to three games|url=https://www.nfl.com/news/vontaze-burfict-s-suspension-reduced-to-three-games-0ap3000000837222|website=NFL.com|date=August 30, 2017|access-date=August 31, 2017|archive-date=August 31, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170831020003/http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000837222/article/vontaze-burficts-suspension-reduced-to-three-games|url-status=live}}</ref> 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.<ref name="spotrac" /><ref>{{Cite web |last=Roling |first=Chris |date=September 7, 2017 |title=Bengals, Vontaze Burfict agree on 3-year contract extension |url=https://bengalswire.usatoday.com/2017/09/07/bengals-vontaze-burfict-agree-on-3-year-contract-extension/ |access-date=October 28, 2022 |website=Bengals Wire |language=en-US |archive-date=October 28, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221028180541/https://bengalswire.usatoday.com/2017/09/07/bengals-vontaze-burfict-agree-on-3-year-contract-extension/ |url-status=live }}</ref> The contract would make Burfict one the highest paid linebackers in the NFL.<ref>{{Cite magazine |last=Rapaport |first=Daniel |title=Bengals' Vontaze Burfict gets contract extension |url=https://www.si.com/nfl/2017/09/07/report-vontaze-burfict-gets-contract-extension |access-date=October 11, 2022 |magazine=Sports Illustrated |date=September 7, 2017 |language=en-us |archive-date=October 11, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221011012306/https://www.si.com/nfl/2017/09/07/report-vontaze-burfict-gets-contract-extension |url-status=live }}</ref>

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.<ref>{{cite web |last=Cosentino |first=Dom |date=October 23, 2017 |title=Surprise, Vontaze Burfict Kicked A Guy |url=https://deadspin.com/surprise-vontaze-burfict-kicked-a-guy-1819766787 |access-date=October 23, 2017 |publisher=Deadspin |archive-date=October 23, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171023234913/https://deadspin.com/surprise-vontaze-burfict-kicked-a-guy-1819766787 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last=Terell |first=Katherine |date=October 23, 2017 |title=Source: Bengals' Vontaze Burfict may be fined but won't be suspended |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/21129283/cincinnati-bengals-lb-vontaze-burfict-not-suspended |access-date=October 23, 2017 |publisher=ESPN |archive-date=October 23, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171023204412/http://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/21129283/cincinnati-bengals-lb-vontaze-burfict-not-suspended |url-status=live }}</ref> On October 27, 2017, Burfict was fined $12,154 for kicking Nix.<ref>{{cite web|title=Vontaze Burfict fined $12K for kicking Roosevelt Nix|url=https://www.nfl.com/news/vontaze-burfict-fined-12k-for-kicking-steelers-player-0ap3000000868134|publisher=NFL|access-date=October 27, 2017|archive-date=October 28, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171028014738/http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000868134/article/vontaze-burfict-fined-12k-for-kicking-steelers-fb|url-status=live}}</ref> 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.<ref>{{cite web |date=November 12, 2017 |title=Vontaze Burfict ejected for contact with official |url=https://www.nfl.com/news/vontaze-burfict-ejected-for-contact-with-official-0ap3000000875433 |access-date=November 12, 2017 |publisher=NFL |archive-date=November 13, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171113073529/http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000875433/article/vontaze-burfict-ejected-for-contact-with-official |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last1=Sessler |first1=Marc |date=November 13, 2017 |title=Vontaze Burfict won't face ban for flag in Bengals' loss |url=https://www.nfl.com/news/vontaze-burfict-won-t-face-ban-for-flag-in-bengals-loss-0ap3000000876503 |access-date=November 13, 2017 |publisher=NFL |archive-date=November 13, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171113210738/http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000876503/article/vontaze-burfict-wont-face-ban-for-flag-in-bengals-loss |url-status=live }}</ref> 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.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |last=Dubin |first=Jared |date=October 13, 2018 |title=JuJu Smith-Schuster isn't worried about revenge from Bengals for Vontaze Burfict hit |url=https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/juju-smith-schuster-isnt-worried-about-revenge-from-bengals-for-vontaze-burfict-hit/ |access-date=October 11, 2022 |website=CBSSports.com |language=en |archive-date=October 11, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221011012306/https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/juju-smith-schuster-isnt-worried-about-revenge-from-bengals-for-vontaze-burfict-hit/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Smith-Schuster was penalized for unnecessary roughness and taunted Burfict by standing over him after delivering the hit.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Patra|first1=Kevin|title=JuJu Smith-Schuster, George Iloka each suspended for one game|url=https://www.nfl.com/news/juju-smith-schuster-george-iloka-suspended-1-game-0ap3000000888604|publisher=NFL|access-date=December 5, 2017|archive-date=December 6, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171206010307/http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000888604/article/juju-smithschuster-george-iloka-banned-one-game|url-status=live}}</ref> Burfict remained in concussion protocol and was sidelined for the next two games (Weeks 14–15).<ref>{{cite web |title=JuJu Smith-Schuster defends Vontaze Burfict hit, says he'll still play physical |url=https://www.cincinnati.com/story/sports/nfl/bengals/2017/12/14/juju-smith-schuster-defends-vontaze-burfict-hit-says-hell-still-play-physical/952149001/ |access-date=December 6, 2018 |newspaper=Cincinnati Enquirer |last=Clark |first=Dave |date=December 14, 2017 |archive-date=January 24, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210124102807/https://www.cincinnati.com/story/sports/nfl/bengals/2017/12/14/juju-smith-schuster-defends-vontaze-burfict-hit-says-hell-still-play-physical/952149001/ |url-status=live }}</ref> He was also inactive for the Bengals' Week 17 victory at the Baltimore Ravens due to a shoulder injury.<ref>{{cite web |last=RotoWire Staff |date=January 30, 2018 |title=Bengals' Vontaze Burfict: Misses six games in 2017 |url=https://www.cbssports.com/fantasy/football/news/bengals-vontaze-burfict-misses-six-games-in-2017/ |access-date=December 6, 2018 |website=CBSSports.com |archive-date=December 7, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181207102800/https://www.cbssports.com/fantasy/football/news/bengals-vontaze-burfict-misses-six-games-in-2017/ |url-status=live }}</ref> 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.<ref name="career"/>

====2018 season==== On March 16, 2018, Burfict received a four-game suspension for violating the league's policy against performance-enhancing drugs.<ref>{{cite web |last=Sessler |first=Marc |date=March 16, 2018 |title=Vontaze Burfict facing 4-game suspension for PED violation |url=https://www.nfl.com/news/bengals-lb-vontaze-burfict-facing-4-game-suspension-0ap3000000921745 |access-date=March 16, 2018 |publisher=NFL |archive-date=March 16, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180316210816/http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000921745/article/bengals-lb-vontaze-burfict-facing-4game-suspension |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last=Knoblauch |first=Austin |date=March 31, 2018 |title=Vontaze Burfict's future with Bengals safe -- for now |url=https://www.nfl.com/news/vontaze-burfict-s-future-with-bengals-safe-for-now-0ap3000000924144 |access-date=April 1, 2018 |publisher=NFL |archive-date=April 1, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180401143816/http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000924144/article/vontaze-burficts-future-with-bengals-safe-for-now |url-status=live }}</ref> 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.<ref name=":0" />

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.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Roling |first=Chris |date=October 14, 2018 |title=Vontaze Burfict recklessly hit Antonio Brown and teammate Jessie Bates |url=https://bengalswire.usatoday.com/2018/10/14/vontaze-burfict-recklessly-hit-antonio-brown-jessie-bates/ |access-date=October 11, 2022 |website=Bengals Wire |language=en-US |archive-date=October 11, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221011012307/https://bengalswire.usatoday.com/2018/10/14/vontaze-burfict-recklessly-hit-antonio-brown-jessie-bates/ |url-status=live }}</ref> 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.<ref>{{cite web |last=Bergman |first=Jeremy |date=October 20, 2018 |title=Vontaze Burfict fined $112k for hits vs. Steelers |url=https://www.nfl.com/news/vontaze-burfict-fined-112k-for-hits-vs-steelers-0ap3000000976119 |access-date=October 21, 2018 |publisher=NFL |archive-date=October 21, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181021232440/http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000976119/article/vontaze-burfict-fined-112k-for-hits-vs-steelers |url-status=live }}</ref> 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.<ref>{{cite web |title=Bengals LB Vontaze Burfict suffers hip injury vs. Chiefs |url=https://www.cincyjungle.com/2018/10/21/18007740/bengals-lb-vontaze-burfict-suffers-hip-injury-vs-chiefs-sunday-night-football-week-7 |access-date=December 6, 2018 |website=cincyjungle.com |last=Sheeran |first=John |date=October 22, 2018 |archive-date=December 7, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181207045932/https://www.cincyjungle.com/2018/10/21/18007740/bengals-lb-vontaze-burfict-suffers-hip-injury-vs-chiefs-sunday-night-football-week-7 |url-status=live }}</ref> On March 18, 2019, Burfict was released by the Bengals after seven seasons with the team.<ref>{{cite web|title=Bengals releasing Vontaze Burfict after seven seasons|url=http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000001023144/article/bengals-releasing-vontaze-burfict-after-seven-seasons|last=Patra|first=Kevin|website=NFL.com|date=March 18, 2019|access-date=March 19, 2019|archive-date=March 19, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190319125723/http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000001023144/article/bengals-releasing-vontaze-burfict-after-seven-seasons|url-status=dead}}</ref>

===Oakland Raiders=== On March 19, 2019, Burfict signed a one-year, $5 million contract with the Oakland Raiders.<ref>{{cite web|title=Raiders sign linebacker Vontaze Burfict|url=https://www.raiders.com/news/raiders-sign-linebacker-vontaze-burfict|website=Raiders.com|date=March 19, 2019|access-date=March 20, 2019|archive-date=March 21, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190321114459/https://www.raiders.com/news/raiders-sign-linebacker-vontaze-burfict|url-status=live}}</ref> 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.<ref>{{cite web |date=September 9, 2019 |title=Raiders beat Broncos 24-16 in 1st game after Brown's release |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/recap?gameId=401128025 |access-date=September 9, 2019 |website=ESPN |archive-date=September 10, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190910090057/https://www.espn.com/nfl/recap?gameId=401128025 |url-status=live }}</ref>

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 informing Burfict of the suspension, NFL vice president of football operations and chief disciplinarian officer Jon Runyan upbraided Burfict for his history of personal fouls and illicit hits against opponents. Runyan added that he and the hearing officers that handle appeals for on-field misconduct had repeatedly warned Burfict about his play, to no avail.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/27735755/oakland-raiders-vontaze-burfict-suspended-rest-season|title=Raiders' Vontaze Burfict suspended for rest of season|date=September 30, 2019|website=ESPN.com|language=en|access-date=September 30, 2019|archive-date=September 30, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190930161844/https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/27735755/oakland-raiders-vontaze-burfict-suspended-rest-season|url-status=live}}</ref> The 12-game suspension became the longest for on-field misconduct in modern NFL history, more than doubling the five-game suspension mandated to Albert Haynesworth in 2006.<ref>{{cite news |title=Vontaze Burfict suspended for the rest of the 2019 season, the longest for an on-field infraction |url=http://www.footballzebras.com/2019/09/vontaze-burfict-suspended-for-the-rest-of-the-2019-season-the-longest-for-an-on-field-infraction/ |work=Football Zebras |first=Ben |last=Austro |date=September 30, 2019 |access-date=September 30, 2019 |archive-date=September 30, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190930193623/http://www.footballzebras.com/2019/09/vontaze-burfict-suspended-for-the-rest-of-the-2019-season-the-longest-for-an-on-field-infraction/ |url-status=live }}</ref> 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.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Gutierrez |first=Paul |date=October 9, 2019 |title=Raiders' Vontaze Burfict has season-long suspension upheld |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/27808459/raiders-vontaze-burfict-season-long-suspension-upheld |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191208071434/https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/27808459/raiders-vontaze-burfict-season-long-suspension-upheld |archive-date=December 8, 2019 |access-date=November 18, 2019 |publisher=ESPN|agency=Associated Press}}</ref> He was reinstated on December 30, 2019.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://sportsnaut.com/2019/12/vontaze-burfict-suspension-lifted-per-nfl-transaction-wire/|title=Vontaze Burfict suspension lifted, per NFL transaction wire|first1=Jesse|last1=Reed|publisher=SportsNaut|date=December 30, 2019|access-date=January 20, 2020|archive-date=January 1, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200101160455/https://sportsnaut.com/2019/12/vontaze-burfict-suspension-lifted-per-nfl-transaction-wire/|url-status=live}}</ref> Burfict became a free agent in 2020 at the conclusion of his one-year contract with the Raiders. He had every intention of continuing his career,<ref>{{Cite web |last=Pelissero |first=Tom |date=March 12, 2020 |title=Vontaze Burfict plans to change, continue NFL career in 2020 |url=https://www.nfl.com/news/vontaze-burfict-plans-to-change-continue-nfl-career-in-2020-0ap3000001106022 |access-date=October 16, 2020 |website=NFL.com |language=en-US |archive-date=October 20, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201020054532/https://www.nfl.com/news/vontaze-burfict-plans-to-change-continue-nfl-career-in-2020-0ap3000001106022 |url-status=live }}</ref> but never played another down in the NFL again.

==NFL career statistics== {| class="wikitable" style="text-align: center;" |+ {{sronly|NFL career statistics for Vontaze Burfict}} ! rowspan="2" scope="col"| Year ! rowspan="2" scope="col"| Team ! colspan="2" scope="col"| Games ! colspan="4" scope="col"| Tackles ! colspan="6" scope="col"| Interceptions ! colspan="2" scope="col"| Fumbles |- ! scope="col" | GP !! GS !! Comb !! Solo !! Ast !! Sck !! PD !! Int !! Yds !! Avg !! Lng !! TD !! FF !! FR |- ! scope = "row" | 2012 !! CIN | '''16'''|| 14 || 127 || 73 || 54 || 1.0 || 2 || — || — || — || — || — || — || '''2''' |- ! scope = "row" | 2013 !! CIN | '''16'''|| '''16'''|| '''171'''|| '''114'''|| '''57'''|| '''3.0'''|| 6|| 1 || 12 || 12.0 || 12 || — || 1 || '''2''' |- ! scope = "row" | 2014 !! CIN | 5 || 5 || 29 || 15 || 14 || — || 2 || — || — || — || — || — || 1 || 1 |- ! scope = "row" | 2015 !! CIN | 10 || 10 || 74 || 57 || 17 || 1.0 || 5 || '''2'''|| 16 || 8.0 || 16 || — || — || — |- ! scope = "row" | 2016 !! CIN | 11 || 11 || 101 || 73 || 28 || 2.0 || '''8''' || '''2'''|| '''54'''|| '''27.0'''|| '''47'''|| — || 1 || — |- ! scope = "row" | 2017 !! CIN | 10 || 10 || 69 || 48 || 21 || 1.5 || 2 || — || — || — || — || — || 1 || — |- ! scope = "row" | 2018 !! CIN | 7 || 7 || 33 || 16 || 17 || — || 3 || — || — || — || — || — || — || — |- ! scope = "row" | 2019 !! OAK | 4 || 4 || 18 || 11 || 7 || — || 1 || — || — || — || — || — || — || — |- ! scope = "row" colspan="2"| Total !! 79 !! 77 !! 622 !! 407 !! 215 !! 8.5 !! 29 !! 5 !! 82 !! 15.7 !! 47 !! — !! 4 !! 5 |}

==Coaching career== On August 8, 2025, UNLV hired Burfict as a defensive analyst, working alongside Paul Guenther, who was serving as interim defensive coordinator.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Clark |first=Dave |date=2025-08-07 |title=Vontaze Burfict, former Bengals linebacker, hired as UNLV defensive analyst |url=https://www.cincinnati.com/story/sports/nfl/bengals/2025/08/07/vontaze-burfict-former-bengals-linebacker-hired-unlv-defensive-analyst-paul-guenther/85566987007/ |access-date=2025-08-08 |work=Cincinnati Enquirer |language=en-US}}</ref>

==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.<ref name="Dillon SI.com">{{cite news |url=https://www.si.com/more-sports/2012/04/20/vontaze-burfict |title=Burfict working hard to overcome bad reputation, plummeting stock |first=Dennis |last=Dillon |date=April 20, 2012 |work=SI.com |access-date=August 2, 2018 |archive-date=August 2, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180802101825/https://www.si.com/more-sports/2012/04/20/vontaze-burfict |url-status=live }}</ref> His mother, a city transit bus driver, initially raised Burfict and his older half-brother DaShan Miller ({{abbr|b.|born}} 1986) on her own but eventually remarried and moved to Corona.<ref name="Dillon SI.com" /><ref name="Roenigk ESPN">{{cite news |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/draft2012/story/_/id/7821147/nfl-asu-linebacker-vontaze-burfict-draft-most-misunderstood-player-espn-magazine |title=ASU linebacker Vontaze Burfict is draft's most misunderstood player |work=ESPN The Magazine |date=April 23, 2012 |first=Alyssa |last=Roenigk |access-date=April 26, 2012 |archive-date=April 25, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120425112600/http://espn.go.com/nfl/draft2012/story/_/id/7821147/nfl-asu-linebacker-vontaze-burfict-draft-most-misunderstood-player-espn-magazine |url-status=live }}</ref> Like Burfict, Miller was a football player at Corona Centennial High School and later played college football for the UTEP Miners and Akron as a wide receiver.<ref name="Roenigk ESPN" />

==Legal issues== 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.<ref>{{cite web |title=Vontaze Burfict arrested on battery charge in Nevada |date=December 5, 2020 |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/30453705/free-agent-lb-vontaze-burfict-arrested-battery-charge-nevada |publisher=ESPN |access-date=December 5, 2020 |archive-date=December 5, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201205150231/https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/30453705/free-agent-lb-vontaze-burfict-arrested-battery-charge-nevada |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name=":4">{{Cite web |title=Vontaze Burfict 'Secret Pizza' Arrest Video Shows NFL Star Sobbing Outside Of Casino |url=https://www.tmz.com/2021/06/17/vontaze-burfict-secret-pizza-arrest-video-shows-nfl-star-cried-outside-of-casino/ |access-date=September 29, 2022 |website=TMZ |date=June 17, 2021 |language=en |archive-date=September 29, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220929225157/https://www.tmz.com/2021/06/17/vontaze-burfict-secret-pizza-arrest-video-shows-nfl-star-cried-outside-of-casino/ |url-status=live }}</ref> The charges against Burfict were later dropped.<ref name=":4" />

== Legacy ==

Rappers JPEGMafia and Danny Brown have a song named after the football player, titled "Burfict!", on their collaborative album ''Scaring the Hoes'' (2023).<ref>{{Cite web |title=JPEGMAFIA 28th March 2022 |url=https://www.nts.live/shows/guests/episodes/jpeg-mafia-28th-march-2022 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230330073706/https://www.nts.live/shows/guests/episodes/jpeg-mafia-28th-march-2022 |archive-date=March 30, 2023 |access-date=March 30, 2023 |website=NTS Radio |language=en}}</ref>

==References== {{Reflist|30em}}

==External links== {{commons}} * [https://web.archive.org/web/20160305100826/http://www.thesundevils.com/ViewArticle.dbml?DB_OEM_ID=30300&ATCLID=207923229 Arizona State Sun Devils bio] * {{IMDb name|6873073}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Burfict, Vontaze}} Category:1990 births Category:Living people Category:Players of American football from Corona, California Category:American football linebackers Category:Arizona State Sun Devils football players Category:Cincinnati Bengals players Category:Oakland Raiders players Category:Unconferenced Pro Bowl players Category:Violence in sports Category:NFL controversies Category:Centennial High School (Corona, California) alumni Category:UNLV Rebels football coaches