Texans linebacker Azeez Al-Shaair is facing a three-game suspension for a hit on Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence. In what has been described as a 'late' and 'unnecessary' tackle during Sunday's game, the impact led to a concussion for Lawrence, stopping the game to dispel penalties and a brawl that broke out subsequently, as reported by KHOU.
According to Click2Houston, Al-Shaair is planning to appeal the suspension, which he finds excessive considering his no prior record of suspension. With his appeal, he hopes to reduce the punishment—echoing past incidents where other players' suspensions have been reduced upon appeal. The suspension will be reviewed by either Derrick Brooks, Ramon Foster, Kevin Mawae, or Jordy Nelson, who are appeals officers jointly appointed by the NFL and NFLPA.
The details of the suspension were outlined in a memo from NFL Vice President of Football Operations Jon Runyan, which cited multiple offenses for personal fouls and sportsmanship-related rules violations. In the reported statement obtained by KHOU, Runyan emphasized the tackle as "a serious violation of the playing rules," highlighting the contact to Lawrence's head/neck area that the player could have avoided. Al-Shaair, who defended his case by claiming he didn't see Lawrence slide in time, has issued a public apology, expressing his regret and intention never to harm another player.
Meanwhile, Texans coach DeMeco Ryans supported Al-Shaair, suggesting that the incident was a result of Lawrence's late slide and emphasizing that the linebacker is not known for malicious play on the field. "Azeez is a great person, exceptional leader for us. And Azeez is a really good player. And he plays the game the right way. His intent is never to hurt anyone as he’s playing the game," Ryans explained, in a statement obtained by Click2Houston. Ryans further remarked upon the overreaction on the Jaguars' sideline which added fuel to the fire, leading to a physical confrontation that saw both teams involved.
In the aftermath of the incident, both sides have dealt with an array of reactions, with Al-Shaair being confronted by fans and players alike. As reported by KHOU, an altercation ensued with Jaguars guard Brandon Scherff, which escalated when a fan threw a water bottle. This incident punctuates an already tense situation surrounding player safety and sportsmanship in the NFL. Meanwhile, Lawrence provided an update post-game confirming his improving condition and thanked all those concerned for their well-wishes.
