NFL Upholds Vontaze Burfict’s Suspension

In what could be the first sign that the NFL is finally starting to take player safety more seriously, the league today announced that the three-game suspension applied to Cincinnati Bengals linebacker Vontaze Burfict will stand.

The punishment is set to commence at the beginning of the 2016 regular season. It stems from Burfict’s late-game actions in the team’s wildcard loss to the Steelers in January.

On Pittsburgh’s final drive, Burfict drew a backbreaking personal foul penalty for a dangerous hit on defenseless wide receiver Antonio Brown. The shot sparked an on-field scuffle that led to Adam Jones contacting an official, who had no choice but to throw another flag and gift the Steelers an easy field goal to end the game.

Given the NFL’s penchant for leniency when it comes to player indiscretions both on and off the field, many were understandably wary that the initial three-game suspension would serve only as a holdover punishment until a lesser sentence was handed down on mandatory appeal.

Instead, the league appears to have taken a stand against this kind of reckless behaviour, remaining steadfast in its aim of eradicating “cheap” shots from the game.

One should expect that three games on the sidelines would be enough to convince Burfict and players of his ilk that they can no longer get away with extracurricular activity after the play.

The best sign of a fair punishment is one that can genuinely make a player think twice, and ultimately improve the way he plays the game. It’s a lesson Vontaze would do well to learn quickly.