Azeez Al-Shaair Suspended for Three Games After Violent Hit on Lawr….

Azeez Al-Shaair Suspended for Three Games After Violent Hit on Lawrence.

 

Houston Texans linebacker Azeez Al-Shaair has been suspended for three games following a violent hit on Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence during their Week 13 matchup. The incident occurred in the second quarter when Lawrence, attempting a feet-first slide, was struck in the head and neck area by Al-Shaair, who led with his forearm and helmet. Lawrence lay motionless on the field, and the hit sparked a brawl between the two teams.NFL Vice President of Football Operations Jon Runyan described the hit as a “serious violation of the playing rules,” citing Al-Shaair’s ability to avoid the contact but failing to do so. In addition to the illegal hit, Al-Shaair’s subsequent behavior, which included engaging in a fight and escalating tensions on the field, contributed to the suspension.

This punishment comes in light of Al-Shaair’s prior infractions this season. He has already been fined twice for unsportsmanlike conduct, including a late hit on Tennessee’s Tony Pollard and an altercation with Chicago’s Roschon Johnson. These repeated violations of player safety rules factored into the NFL’s decision to impose a three-game suspension without pay.

The suspension, pending appeal, will sideline Al-Shaair for games against the Miami Dolphins, Kansas City Chiefs, andBaltimore Ravens. If upheld, the suspension will cost him approximately $265,000 in salary.Houston Texans General Manager Nick Caserio criticized the league’s decision, arguing inconsistencies in the application of disciplinary actions. Caserio defended Al-Shaair’s character and intentions, expressing frustration with how the incident was portrayed.

Meanwhile, Trevor Lawrence’s health remains a concern, with the Jaguars considering shutting him down for the remainder of the season. This incident underscores ongoing concerns about player safety and sportsmanship in the NFL.