Vontaze Burfict built a reputation as one of the most physical linebackers in recent NFL history, known for hard hits, lengthy suspensions, and outspoken competitiveness. This overview captures how his style on the field translated into notable stats and a complex legacy.
Below is a high level summary of Burfict's impact and availability as a player, followed by deeper analysis of his statistics and career context.
| Category | 2015 (Peak Season) | Career High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Tackles | 110 | 115 | 2015 with Oakland, consistent production across years |
| Sacks | 1.5 | 4.5 | Limited edge production but occasional pressure |
| Interceptions | 1 | 5 | Ball skills present but coverage role limited |
| Forced Fumbles | 3 | 9 | Disruption ability off the edge |
| Games Suspended | 3 | 11 | League discipline affecting availability and longevity |
Burfict Physical Profile and Combine Metrics
Before diving into on field numbers, it is essential to understand the physical tools that defined Vontaze Burfict's draft stock and playing style.
Size, Speed, and Athletic Testing
At 6'2", 244 pounds, Burfict possessed ideal linebacker measurements for NFL bulk and power. His 4.68 forty yard dash time was respectable for a linebacker at the combine, while his 37-inch vertical jump and 108-inch broad jump highlighted adequate explosiveness for coverage downs.
Playing Style Driven Stats and Impact
Burfict's stat line reflects a run stopping specialist and hitter first, with limited playmaking in pass coverage and consistently high penalty totals.
Run Defense and Contact Frequency
His tackle counts, often near or above 100 per season, underline a role centered on stopping inside runs. A high number of assisted tackles demonstrates his frequent participation in team efforts to control ball carriers.
Discipline and Penalty Trends
Frequent personal foul penalties, reflected in the resulting suspensions, show that his aggressive approach sometimes crossed the line of acceptable play, directly affecting availability and on field morale.
Career Longevity, Durability, and Availability
Injury history and disciplinary actions shaped how many snaps and games Burfict logged over his career.
Injury and Practice Absences
Despite solid durability in terms of games started, practices missed for injuries and league suspensions reduced his overall availability and limited his practice reps with teams.
Team Transitions and Roster Fit
After leaving the Raiders, Burfict struggled to secure a consistent role with the Cardinals, playing in fewer snaps and contributing less frequently, which shows how style and discipline needs can affect role changes.
Comparative Context and Positional Ranking
Placing Vontaze Burfict alongside similar linebackers clarifies where he stood in terms of production and discipline driven stats.
| Player | Career Tackles | Career Sacks | Interceptions | Key Difference |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vontaze Burfict | 767 | 4.5 | 5 | High hit volume, frequent penalties |
| Jerome Baker | 335 | 9.5 | 6 | More sacks and picks, fewer hits |
| Devin White | 514 | 22.5 | 7 | Higher pass rush and turnover production |
| Bud Dupree | 240 | 17.0 | 5 | Elite edge stats, fewer total tackles |
Key Takeaways for Evaluating Vontaze Burfict Stats
- High tackle volume signals elite run defense responsibilities.
- Low sack and interception totals highlight a specialist role.
- Frequent personal foul penalties reduced availability and team trust.
- Team changes affected snap counts and overall production.
- Physical tools were strong, but discipline shaped career trajectory.
FAQ
Reader questions
How many tackles did Vontaze Burfict record in his career high season?
Vontaze Burfict recorded 110 tackles in his peak 2015 season with the Oakland Raiders, marking the highest single season total of his career.
What is the total number of career interceptions attributed to Vontaze Burfict?
Over his NFL tenure, Burfict compiled 5 interceptions, reflecting limited but present playmaking ability in coverage situations.
How many career sacks does Vontaze Burfict have compared to other linebackers?
With 4.5 career sacks, Burfict ranks below most edge linebackers, indicating that his value was primarily as a run defender rather than a pass rusher.
How many games was Vontaze Burfict suspended during his career?
Burfict faced 11 total game suspensions, significantly reducing his availability and demonstrating how disciplinary issues impacted his on field contributions.