The most expensive disciplinary record in NFL history
In short: Vontaze Burfict was a defensive powerhouse whose talent was often overshadowed by a trail of controversy. Over eight seasons, his aggressive playstyle led to 15 separate incidents, resulting in 22 games of suspensions and over $5.36 million in lost salary and fines.
A standout at Arizona State, Burfict entered the 2012 NFL Draft as a projected top pick. However, his draft stock plummeted following a disappointing NFL Combine performance, where he ran a 5.09-second 40-yard dash—the slowest among all linebackers—and a failed drug test for marijuana. This led him to enter the league as an undrafted free agent with the Cincinnati Bengals.
Once in the professional ranks, Burfict's impact was undeniable. During his rookie season, he led the Bengals in tackles, and by 2013, he earned Pro Bowl honors. Statistically, his defensive impact was notable; the Bengals' unit surrendered 2.4 fewer yards per play during his active playing time compared to his absences. He even topped the NFL's 'Performance-Based Pay' program with $299,465 in earnings in 2013.
Yet, this success was inextricably linked to a reputation for dangerous play. His career was marked by frequent violations of player safety rules, including accusations of targeting ankles and hits that caused significant injuries, such as the hit on Le’Veon Bell that tore the running back's MCL. His final season with the Oakland Raiders was cut short by a 12-game suspension for an illegal hit, the longest on-flag suspension in the history of the league.
The cost of this aggression was immense. Totaling over $5.36 million, his lost wages and penalties accounted for roughly 15.28% of his $35.14 million lifetime earnings. By 2025, the former linebacker transitioned into a new role as a defensive analyst for the UNLV Rebels.
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- Summary by Intellect · source: Vontaze Burfict
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