Antonio Brown and Vontaze Burfict have not always been friends. Steelers and Bengals often aren't, but this AFC North rivalry took a more personal tone after Burfict did Brown dirty in the 2015 playoffs, striking the receiver in the head while he was extended to reach an uncatchable pass.
Burfict was suspended three games for the act, and animosity increased between the teams they represent. Bad blood spilled that day, with some retaliation and unflattering words issued since.
That was when Brown and Burfict played for warring factions. Now they're teammates, united under silver and black. The Raiders traded for Brown just before free agency and signed Burfict a short while after.
They spoke shortly after Burfict signed up, and made efforts to squash beef on social media.
That happened again Thursday, when Brown posted an Instagram photo of Burfict walking behind him, with the caption, "Used to have to watch my back; now he got my back! #Boom"
Burfict replied with a screenshot of the Brown post and this response, "1 TEAM 1 DREAM = A RING"
Here's the exchange:
