Vontaze Burfict is facing a five-game suspension for an illegal hit on Anthony Sherman of the Kansas City Chiefs, according to league sources.
Burfict, a repeat offender, hit the running back in a defenseless posture, the league believes.
The Cincinnati Bengals, in a statement, said it is "aware of the NFL's letter to Vontaze regarding a play in last weekend's game. The film shows that the hit was legal, that Vontaze engaged his opponent from the front, and that contact was shoulder-to-chest. The Club will support Vontaze in the appeal process."
It is a new rule the NFL is implementing this season to protect the player who can't protect himself.
