Vontaze Burfict, a former professional football linebacker, is a figure who inspired admiration for his talent and criticism for his on-field behavior. Born on September 24, 1990, in Los Angeles, California, Burfict is now 34 years old. With a net worth of $12 million as of 2025, Burfict’s career, spanning from 2012 to 2019, was marked by exceptional performances and significant controversies. Known for his time with the Cincinnati Bengals and Oakland Raiders, Burfict is married and has two children. His career stands as a testament to both the heights and pitfalls of professional sports.
Key Takeaways from Burfict’s Career
- Immense Talent: Burfict’s ability as a linebacker was undeniable, with seasons of exceptional tackles and defensive leadership.
- Behavioral Issues: His career was overshadowed by fines, suspensions, and controversy due to his aggressive and often dangerous playing style.
- Financial Success: Despite his tumultuous career, Burfict accumulated a net worth of $12 million, reflecting lucrative contracts and endorsements.
- Missed Potential: Burfict’s career serves as a cautionary tale of how behavioral issues can undermine even the most talented athletes.
Early Life Challenges
Growing up in Los Angeles, Burfict faced considerable adversity. His father, a gang member and convicted drug dealer, spent much of Burfict’s childhood in prison. Raised by his mother, a city bus driver, alongside his older half-brother DaShan, Burfict’s early life was shaped by resilience. The family later relocated to Corona, California, where he attended Centennial High School.
At Centennial, Burfict emerged as a football prodigy, leading the Huskies to an undefeated season in 2008 and a CIF state championship. He recorded 159 tackles, two sacks, and two interceptions, solidifying his reputation as a dominant force on the field.
College Success and Setbacks
Initially committed to the University of Southern California, Burfict switched to Arizona State University, where he became a standout player. In his freshman season, he was named Pac-10 Defensive Freshman of the Year. His sophomore year saw him record 90 total tackles and earn first-team All-American honors.
However, his junior season was less productive, marred by uneven play and behavioral issues. Despite this, Burfict declared for the 2012 NFL draft, a decision that ultimately backfired. His draft stock plummeted due to a poor showing at the NFL Scouting Combine, a failed drug test, and concerns over his temperament.
Bengals Career Highlights
Going undrafted in 2012, Burfict signed a three-year contract with the Cincinnati Bengals. He quickly proved his worth, leading the team in tackles during his rookie season with 127 total tackles. However, his aggressive playing style, which had been an asset in college, began to attract fines and criticism in the NFL.
Burfict’s best statistical season came in 2013 when he recorded a league-leading 171 combined tackles. Despite this success, his on-field conduct caused friction. Incidents such as intentionally striking an opponent in the crotch and hitting a defenseless receiver led to fines totaling $31,000.
Mounting Controversies
Burfict’s career became increasingly defined by his controversial behavior. In 2014, he was fined $25,000 for twisting the ankles of opponents Greg Olsen and Cam Newton. That season, injuries limited his participation to five games. In 2015, his violent tackle on Pittsburgh Steelers halfback Le’Veon Bell resulted in an MCL tear, further tarnishing his reputation.
The 2015 season also saw Burfict fined nearly $70,000 for additional violations. In the playoffs, his actions cost the Bengals dearly, as a penalty for unnecessary roughness led to a loss against the Steelers in the Wild Card round.
Suspensions and Decline
Burfict’s repeated violations led to suspensions in both the 2016 and 2017 seasons. His behavior included kicking opponents, committing personal fouls, and receiving ejections. In 2018, he was suspended for violating the NFL’s drug policy and fined $112,000 for unnecessary roughness during games.
Despite his undeniable talent, the Bengals released Burfict following the 2018 season. His time with the team had been a mix of exceptional performances and disciplinary issues, leaving a polarizing legacy.
Raiders Tenure and Final Suspension
Burfict signed a one-year contract with the Oakland Raiders in 2019. However, his stint was short-lived. In Week 4 of the season, a helmet-to-helmet hit on Indianapolis Colts tight end Jack Doyle led to a season-long suspension, the longest on-field suspension in NFL history.
After his contract with the Raiders expired in 2020, Burfict became a free agent. Although he expressed interest in returning to the NFL, no teams signed him, effectively ending his professional football career.
Legacy and Reflection
Vontaze Burfict’s NFL career is a story of contrasts: a player with extraordinary talent who became infamous for his on-field conduct. While his physicality and skill made him a formidable linebacker, his inability to control his aggression ultimately defined his legacy. As of 2025, Burfict’s story continues to resonate as both an example of athletic excellence and a reminder of the importance of discipline and professionalism in sports.