Arizona State linebacker Vontaze Burfict has signed a contract with the Cincinnati Bengals, a source with knowledge of the situation told NFL Network on Sunday.
"I didnât get drafted like I wanted to, but Iâm blessed to be on an NFL team," Burfict said, according to the Arizona State University State Press.
Bengals coach Marvin Lewis worked out Burfict during Arizona Stateâs pro day, and according to Cincinnati.com the two kept in touch.
"I feel comfortable being coached by him," Burfict said of Lewis. "I know that Iâm a first-, second-round pick and the Bengals got a steal in the draft because nobody drafted me."
A poor performance at the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis in February and reports of a failed drug test hampered the former Sun Devils star. But the Bengals, known to give troubled players second chances, swooped in to add him.
Burfict collected 228 tackles (22.5 for loss), seven sacks and four forced fumbles in three seasons at Arizona State, according to the school's official website.
Burfict said he looks forward to working with fourth-year Bengals linebacker Rey Maualuga, according to the State-Press.
"Iâm going to go in the first week and take notes of what heâs doing," Burfict said. "Iâm going to perfect my style of football. Hopefully, Iâm either playing beside him, backing up or Iâm starting. Either way, Iâm happy to be on the team."
