Houston Texans linebacker Azeez Al-Shaair suspended for three games for late hit on Jacksonville Jaguars’ Trevor Lawrence that led to a concussion.
NFL Vice President of Football Operations Jon Runyan announced the suspension, citing an “unacceptable and serious violation of the playing rules” in a lengthy letter to Al-Shaair. The hit was deemed unacceptable due to the forceful blow to the head/neck area of Lawrence, who slid feet-first, and Al-Shaair’s involvement in the subsequent on-field brawl.
The letter also highlighted Al-Shaair’s lack of sportsmanship and respect for the game, which does not “reflect the core values of the NFL.” Runyan emphasized that Al-Shaair’s continued disregard for the rules puts the health and safety of both himself and his opponents at risk, stating “it will not be tolerated.”
The incident occurred with just over four minutes remaining in the first half, when Al-Shaair made a late hit on a defenseless Lawrence, who was forced to be carted off the field. A brawl ensued, and Al-Shaair was ejected.
Al-Shaair has previously been fined for late hits, including an $11,255 fine for a hit out of bounds on Tennessee Titans running back Tony Pollard and an earlier fine for punching Chicago Bears running back Roschon Johnson on the sideline. He has also been involved in multiple on-field scuffles, including a hard shot on Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams, which was not flagged.
