Houston Texans linebacker Azeez Al-Shaair has been handed a three-game suspension by the NFL for a brutal hit on Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence during their Week 12 matchup. The suspension comes after Al-Shaair struck Lawrence in the head/neck area while he was sliding to the ground to avoid contact.
Al-Shaair’s hit occurred with 4:20 remaining in the second quarter, when Lawrence had already begun his slide to avoid a hit. Despite Lawrence attempting to protect himself, Al-Shaair made contact with the quarterback’s head and neck. NFL Vice President of Football Operations Jon Runyan cited the violation of player safety protocols as the reason for the suspension.
The League's Statement
The NFL's decision to suspend Al-Shaair was based on the dangerous nature of the hit. In a letter to Al-Shaair, Runyan wrote:
“During your game against the Jacksonville Jaguars on December 1, with 4:20 remaining in the second quarter, you were involved in a play that the League considers unacceptable and a serious violation of the playing rules. Video shows you striking the head/neck area of Jaguars' quarterback Trevor Lawrence after he clearly goes down in a feet-first slide…You led with your forearm and helmet and delivered a forceful blow to the head/neck area of your opponent when you had time and space to avoid such contact.
After the illegal hit, you proceeded to engage in a brawl, which you escalated when you pulled an opponent down to the ground by his facemask. After the referee announced that you were disqualified for the hit and your unsportsmanlike acts, you removed your helmet and reengaged with your opponent while walking down and across the field, which started another physical confrontation near the end zone.
Your lack of sportsmanship and respect for the game of football and all those who play, coach, and enjoy watching it, is troubling and does not reflect the core values of the NFL…Your continued disregard for NFL playing rules puts the health and safety of both you and your opponents in jeopardy and will not be tolerated.”
Al-Shaair's History of Personal Fouls
This isn’t the first time Al-Shaair has been involved in such incidents. The NFL noted that the linebacker has had multiple offenses for personal fouls and sportsmanship-related violations in recent seasons. Al-Shaair’s reckless actions against Lawrence have resulted in a serious violation of league rules that are meant to ensure player safety.
Impact on the Texans and Al-Shaair
The suspension will be a significant blow to the Texans, as Al-Shaair is a key member of their defense. Missing three games without pay, his absence will force the Texans to make adjustments in their defensive lineup. This suspension also carries broader implications for Al-Shaair's career, as it highlights the NFL's commitment to cracking down on dangerous hits.
As for Trevor Lawrence, this hit is just another in a series of heavy blows he's taken this season. However, the NFL’s response to the hit underscores the importance of protecting quarterbacks and maintaining safety across the league.
Moving Forward
The Texans will need to adjust to life without Al-Shaair for the next three games. Meanwhile, Lawrence, despite the painful hit, continues to lead his team through a competitive season. The NFL’s decision sends a clear message that dangerous and reckless hits, especially those to the head or neck area, will have serious consequences.
