HOUSTON, TX – Houston Texans outside linebacker Azeez Al-Shaair has been suspended for three games without pay following an illegal hit on Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence during Sunday’s matchup, the NFL announced Tuesday.
The incident occurred in the second quarter of Jacksonville's 23-20 win when Lawrence slid after a scramble. Al-Shaair delivered a forearm blow to Lawrence's head and neck area, leaving the quarterback concussed. Lawrence was carted off the field, and his availability for upcoming games is uncertain.
The hit sparked a physical altercation between the teams, leading to Al-Shaair’s ejection along with Jaguars cornerback Jarrian Jones, who was involved in the ensuing fight.
NFL Vice President of Football Operations Jon Runyan issued the suspension, citing Al-Shaair’s violation of player safety rules.
"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," Runyan wrote.
"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."
Texans linebacker Azeez Al-Shaair delivers a late hit on Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence
(Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images)
"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 actions, including leading with your forearm and helmet, hitting the head/neck area of a sliding opponent, and escalating the brawl, are unacceptable,” Runyan said in a statement. “Your lack of sportsmanship and respect for the game puts others at risk and will not be tolerated.”
Al-Shaair apologized on social media but has a history of questionable conduct, including incidents involving Tom Brady, Roschon Johnson, and Tony Pollard in previous seasons.
The sixth-year player, in his first season with the Texans, has started 10 games, recording 68 tackles, two sacks, and four pass breakups. He will miss games against the Dolphins, Chiefs, and Ravens as the Texans return from their bye week.
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