Bills’ Burkett Bolts Team After Benching

ORCHARD PARK, N.Y. — Veteran receiver Chris Burkett, angry over being replaced in the starting lineup, walked off the Buffalo Bills team today.

“Right now he’s in limbo,” said Bills General Manager Bill Polian. “Where he goes from here is a subject (Coach Marv Levy) and I will have to discuss.”

Burkett learned that he was being benched in favor of Flip Johnson on Wednesday morning and immediately stormed out of Rich Stadium, missing the team’s afternoon practice.

His belongings were cleared out of his locker, fueling speculation on whether he would be welcomed back if he chooses to return.

‘He’s Hurting’

“I don’t think he did a wise thing,” Levy said. “I don’t think he should have done it, but he’s hurting in a lot of ways and I’m not going to lash out at him.”

Levy said Burkett’s demotion did not result from what appeared to be a heated argument with quarterback Jim Kelly during Monday night’s loss to the Denver Broncos. The confrontation occurred after Burkett missed an audible call, resulting in an interception.

Levy said Johnson was doing an outstanding job and deserved the starting role.