The NFL upheld its three-game suspension of Houston Texans linebacker Azeez Al-Shaair on Wednesday following his illegal hit on Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence during the Texans’ Week 12 victory. NFL Network Insider Tom Pelissero reported that Al-Shaair’s appeal was reviewed and denied by former NFL offensive lineman Ramon Foster, who currently serves as an NFL appeals officer.
The Incident
The play in question occurred midway through the second quarter. Lawrence, recently returning from a shoulder injury, slid feet-first after a six-yard gain. Al-Shaair, in pursuit, delivered a forceful hit to Lawrence’s head and neck area with his forearm, a move deemed egregious by NFL officials. The hit left Lawrence concussed and unable to return to the game.
Al-Shaair’s actions also escalated into a sideline altercation. He was ejected after grabbing an opponent by the facemask and reigniting a confrontation near the end zone, behavior the NFL described as unsportsmanlike. In a letter to Al-Shaair, Jon Runyan, NFL vice president of football operations, cited the linebacker’s repeated violations of safety and sportsmanship rules as factors in the suspension.
Texans’ Defense of Al-Shaair
Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans and general manager Nick Caserio strongly supported Al-Shaair while criticizing the NFL’s disciplinary process. Ryans emphasized the difficulty defenders face with quarterbacks who slide late and accused the Jaguars of overreacting.
“Quarterbacks often take advantage of the rule by sliding late,” Ryans said. “It’s unfortunate that Trevor got hurt, but defenders can’t read a player’s mind. Azeez isn’t a dirty player; he plays fast and physical. His intent was never to injure.”
Caserio was more direct, calling the suspension and its justification “unfair” and “inconsistent” compared to other recent cases. He referenced examples, such as Detroit Lions safety Brian Branch avoiding suspension despite a similar incident and Buffalo Bills safety Kareem Jackson receiving fines and ejections before his suspension. Caserio also highlighted Al-Shaair’s off-field contributions, such as his work with the United Way, to counter narratives portraying him as unsportsmanlike.
Broader Implications
The suspension leaves a gap in Houston’s defense, as Al-Shaair will miss games against the Denver Broncos, New York Jets, and Baltimore Ravens. He will be eligible to return for the Texans’ Week 18 clash with the Tennessee Titans.
For the Texans, who remain in playoff contention, losing their defensive leader complicates their path forward. Meanwhile, the NFL’s decision raises ongoing questions about the consistency of its disciplinary measures, particularly regarding hits to quarterbacks and player conduct.
Moving Forward
As the Texans navigate Al-Shaair’s absence, their organization has united in defending his character and professionalism. However, the suspension highlights the ongoing tension between aggressive play and player safety, an issue that will continue challenging teams and the league.
Show Your Support
Support the growth of Sports View 360’s platform by heading to Fanatics.com and purchasing officially licensed gear from the National Football League. Each purchase made through the text link below goes into the funding of the Sports View 360 brand. To proceed, click the link below and enjoy shopping at Fanatics.
NFL Fan Gear at Fanatics
