The Cincinnati Bengals are facing some behind-the-scenes drama as their rookie wide receiver, Jermaine Burton, has been left behind for a crucial away game against the Pittsburgh Steelers. This surprising decision comes at a time when Burton is also dealing with serious eviction issues from his apartment, making it a double whammy for the young player.
Challenges Off the Field
Jermaine Burton’s off-the-field situation has taken a serious turn. Recently, he received an eviction notice from his landlord, Radius Acquisition LLC, demanding more than $2,500 in unpaid rent along with an additional $75.35 for each day he remains in the apartment. Even more concerning, the landlord has claimed damages to the property exceeding $10,000 beyond regular wear and tear.
Coach’s Decision to Keep Burton Home
As if that wasn’t enough, Coach Zac Taylor has made the call to keep Burton back in Cincinnati instead of having him travel with the team for the game on December 23rd. This marks the second time this season that Burton has been inactive due to a coach’s decision. His previous absence was on November 3rd for a game against the Las Vegas Raiders, where Coach Taylor described that decision as necessary to ensure player conduct was up to the team’s standards.
Upcoming Court Date
Burton is not just facing challenges on the field; he is also scheduled to appear in court on January 24th to address the eviction proceedings. This situation highlights the pressures young athletes can face, balancing their professional responsibilities with personal life struggles.
Burton’s Performance this Season
This season has been tough for Jermaine Burton. Over the course of 14 games, he has managed just four receptions for a total of 107 yards, and his last catch was against the Los Angeles Chargers on November 17th. With his limited impact in games, questions arise about his future with the Bengals, especially if the team doesn’t make the playoffs.
What Lies Ahead for Burton
As the Bengals push toward the playoffs, the absence of Burton could have implications not only for his career but for the team’s performance as well. Bengals fans and supporters are left wondering about the young receiver’s next steps, both in terms of his housing situation and his role with the team going forward. It’s a tough spot for a rookie who is still trying to find his footing amid challenges both on and off the field.
