Cincinnati Bengals Agree On Extension With Vontaze Burfict
CINCINNATI — The Cincinnati Bengals have agreed on a four-year, $20 million dollar extension with Vontaze Burfict locking the linebacker through 2017. Burfict is entering the final year in his rookie contract and would have been a restricted free agent in 2015.
Burfict was named a Pro Bowler after a solid year in 2013. He accumulated a league-leading 171 tackles – 114 of which were unassisted – with three sacks and an interception. He also forced one fumble.
The Bengals have been locking up their star players recently, signing quarterback Andy Dalton and defensive stud and Geno Atkins to extensions. They also agreed on a deal with free agent Carlos Dunlap last offseason. Cincinnati’s focus will turn towards wide receiver AJ Green; once that deal is completed, both their offense and defense will be set for the future.
An undrafted free agent from Arizona State, Burfict was a surprise breakout with Cincinnati. According to Adam Schefter, Burfict will make $7.6 million dollars this year due to the extension.