Bengals’ Burfict to appeal $25K fine for twisting ankles

Cincinnati Bengals linebacker Vontaze Burfict will appeal his $25,000 fine for twisting the ankles of Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton and tight end Greg Olsen during last week’s game, ESPN reported.

Both Olson and Newton complained, saying that Burfict was intentionally trying to hurt them. Burfict can be seen twisting the ankles of Newton and Olsen after touchdown scores.

Panthers coach Ron Rivera sent tapes of the plays to the league office. A source said that the tapes reveal the ankle-twisting is more obvious on the Newton play than on the play Olsen was injured.

Burfict is considered a “repeat offender” and could be subject to stiffer penalties for similar behavior.

Burfict led the Bengals in penalties last season, including eight unnecessary roughness calls. This season he has played one full game and he is tied for the team lead in penalties.