CINCINNATI (AP) — Bengals linebacker Vontaze Burfict has been suspended for the first three games of next season for repeated violations of the NFL’s rules against dangerous hits on opposing players.
His most recent penalty was for targeting Steelers receiver Antonio Brown after an incompletion during Pittsburgh’s 18-16 playoff win on Saturday night. The penalty for hitting Brown in the head helped move the Steelers into range for the winning field goal in the final seconds.
The NFL noted that Burfict had already been fined four times for dangerous hits on players during the season. The NFL said it’s also reviewing the conduct of other players and coaches during the acrimonious game.
Players and coaches from both teams were on the field after Burfict hit Brown, leaving the receiver dazed on the ground.
Bengals cornerback Adam “Pacman” Jones went after Porter and drew a penalty that set up the winning field goal.
Left tackle Andrew Whitworth said on Monday that he respects the Steelers, but not Porter. He said the former linebacker “just doesn’t have a lot of class” and should be held to a higher standard as a coach.