Texans Linebacker Azeez Al-Shaair Suspended Three Games for Hit on Jaguars QB Trevor Lawrence
The NFL has handed down a three-game suspension to Houston Texans linebacker Azeez Al-Shaair following a controversial hit on Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence during a Week 12 game.
The league’s decision stems from the incident, where Al-Shaair was penalized for a rough hit on Lawrence that many viewed as unnecessary and potentially dangerous.
The play occurred late in the second quarter of the Texans’ 24-21 loss to the Jaguars. As Lawrence dropped back to pass, Al-Shaair, who had been pressuring the quarterback all game, rushed toward him.
In an attempt to sack the signal-caller, Al-Shaair made contact with Lawrence’s head and neck area as he attempted to throw the ball.
The hit left Lawrence shaken, though he was able to remain in the game after being evaluated for a concussion on the sideline.
The NFL has increasingly focused on protecting quarterbacks, particularly from hits to the head and neck area, to ensure player safety.
The league has strict rules regarding roughing the passer, especially when it involves any actions deemed excessive or reckless.
Al-Shaair’s hit was deemed to violate these standards, resulting in the suspension without pay, which will take effect immediately.
The suspension means Al-Shaair will miss the Texans’ next three games, a significant blow to the team’s defense. As one of Houston’s top linebackers, Al-Shaair has been a key contributor to the team’s defensive unit, known for his leadership and physicality. His absence will put added pressure on the Texans’ defense, which has struggled this season.
For his part, Al-Shaair expressed regret for the play, acknowledging that he did not intend to injure Lawrence. “I’m a player who respects the game and the safety of my fellow athletes,” Al-Shaair said in a statement. “I’ll accept the suspension and learn from this experience, but I never meant to hurt anyone.”
Despite the suspension, the Texans’ coaching staff and players have rallied around Al-Shaair. Head coach DeMeco Ryans addressed the media, offering his support for the linebacker.
“Azeez is a great teammate, and this is a tough situation for him,” Ryans said. “We know he’ll take responsibility, but we also know this isn’t his character.”
The suspension highlights the NFL’s continued emphasis on player safety, and it sends a strong message to all players that dangerous hits will not be tolerated, especially when it comes to protecting quarterbacks.