The National Football League has suspended Houston Texans linebacker Azeez Al-Shaair for three games after his late hit on Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence. In addition to Al-Shaair getting a penalty for the hit, the Jaguars placed Lawrence on injured reserve, ending his season.
With Al-Shaair out for three games, he could return as early as the Texans’ regular season finale against the Tennessee Titans. He could also suit up for the playoffs, granted that Houston will qualify or win the AFC South.
As NFL Vice President for Football Operations Jon Runyan wrote in Al-Shaair’s suspension letter:
“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 re-engaged with your opponent while walking down and across the field, which started another physical confrontation near the end zone.”
NFL is suspending Texans LB Azeez Al-Shaair three games for the hit he delivered Sunday to Jaguars QB Trevor Lawrence. pic.twitter.com/knMej2dwzW
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) December 3, 2024
This play adds to his list of controversial actions Al-Shaair has done this season. He hit Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams and punched cornerback Roschon Johnson in September. Two months later, he had a late tackle on Tony Pollard. Al-Shaair has 68 tackles, seven quarterback hits, two sacks, four passes defended, and two forced fumbles through ten games.
-Lance Fernandez