Pre-game notes; Burfict starting, Collie out

---Linebacker Vontaze Burfict reportedly will start Sunday for the Cincinnati Bengals.

Burfict, a rookie from Arizona State, went undrafted in April. He reportedly fell from a spot in the high rounds to out of the draft because of discipline issues he faced in college.

Burfict, who played on special teams in the season opener last Sunday, will replace weakside linebacker Thomas Howard, who suffered a torn anterior cruciate ligament in practice last week.

--Wide receiver Austin Collie was listed as inactive for the Indianapolis Colts' home opener against the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday.

Collie suffered his third career concussion during the preseason. He missed the season opener last week and was cleared to play last week.

However, Collie reportedly experienced more post-concussion symptoms late in the week.

Also, the Colts deactivated defensive lineman Dwight Freeney, who suffered a sprained ankle last week against the Chicago Bears.

--Running back Jonathan Steward and wide receiver Steve Smith are expected to play Sunday for the Carolina Panthers against the New Orleans Saints.

Stewart missed the season-opener with an ankle injury he sustained during the preseason. Smith missed practices last week because knee soreness.