Bengals Vontaze Burfict Reportedly Hit With $75k Fine, But No Suspension
BOSTON (CBS) -- As the Bengals expected, there is no suspension for linebacker Vontaze Burfict.
While he won't have to sit out any games for his actions Sunday against the Patriots, Burfict didn't escape unscathed. He was hit with a $75,000 fine for stomping on Patriots running back LeGarrette Blount late in Sunday's game a Gillette Stadium (via Pro Football Talk), a punishment he has already appealed according to ESPN's Adam Schefter.
LB Vontaze Burfict already has appealed the $75,000 fine that @AkronJackson reported the NFL handed him for his stomp of LeGarrette Blount.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) October 19, 2016
Burfict appeared to step on Blount's leg in the end zone after the back scored a late touchdown in New England's 35-17 win.
Video: From coaches film (courtesy NFL), watch Vontaze Burfict (55) deliberately step on Blount's leg after TD. pic.twitter.com/wtTPqy3XHP
— Mike Reiss (@MikeReiss) October 17, 2016
Wednesday's fine, the ninth Burfict has been hit with over his career, is not for his low hit on tight end Martellus Bennett in the fourth quarter, which led to a scuffle with Rob Gronkowski.
Vontaze Burfict going low on Bennett. Seemed unnecessary but what do I know. #Patriots pic.twitter.com/4DWnqa76TD
— Will D. (@WAD1980) October 16, 2016
While a suspension appeared to be warranted, given the fact Burfict is a repeat offender, the NFL didn't think so. It's a bit surprising, given how the league continues to pledge their commitment towards player safety.
But with the NFL, does anything surprise you anymore?