Jamison Hensley, ESPN Staff Writer 9y

Torrey Smith says there's 'some good' in Vontaze Burfict

OWINGS MILLS, Md. -- Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Torrey Smith feels like he got off lucky in his confrontation with Vontaze Burfict, especially with the reputation of the Cincinnati Bengals linebacker.

In Sunday's 27-23 loss to the Bengals, Smith sustained a head injury when he was hit by cornerback Leon Hall's helmet while trying to run a slant route. While the attention soon turned to Adam Jones returning Joe Flacco's interception, Burfict went over to lay a block on Smith even though the wide receiver was visibly injured and holding his head.

Smith, though, was complimentary of Burfict on Wednesday.

"It could've been a lot worse watching the video," Smith said. "He's a heck of a player, but he's a dirty one, too. That's the one time -- as dirty of a player that I think he is -- he definitely held up. He has some good to him."

Burfict was reportedly fined $25,000 for twisting the ankles of Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton and tight end Greg Olsen earlier this month. He has been warned that he's considered a repeat offender subject to escalating discipline and that any future incidents will result in his being summoned to the league office.

When a reporter told Smith that Burfict just had knee surgery, Smith asked, "Dang, serious?"

Reporters told Smith that Burfict is expected to miss a couple of games.

"I hope he gets well soon," Smith said, which drew some laughs because no one knew if Smith was joking.

"I'm serious," Smith said.

^ Back to Top ^