NFL announces final Azeez Al-Shaair suspension decision after Texans star KOd Jaguars’ Trevor Lawrence with brutal hit
The NFL’s ultimate decision regarding Azeez Al-Shaair’s punishment has been made.
Trevor Lawrence, the quarterback for the Jacksonville Jaguars, was knocked out of the game with a vicious hit from Al-Shaair.
Al-Shaair’s hit on Lawrence started a huge fight, which led to his ejection from the Houston Texans game.
After Jaguars players defended their quarterback, he was forced to be held by teammates as punches flew.
During the battle, Lawrence was knocked unconscious and lay on the ground, but he was ultimately able to be lifted to his feet.
After being carried off the field by trainers, he was found to have suffered a concussion.
Read more on the NFL
The NFL suspended Al-Shaair for three games without pay after evaluating the incident.
In addition to the big hit, the league considered his involvement in the fight.
Adam Schefter of ESPN reports that Al-Shaair is contesting the punishment.
Along with the suspension, Al-Shaair received a harsh letter from NFL Vice President of Football Operations Jon Runyan, who stated that the tackle was something the NFL “considers unacceptable and a serious violation of the playing rules.”
“Video shows you striking the head/neck area of Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence after he clearly goes down in a feet-first slide,” the letter continued.
“When you had the time and space to avoid making contact, you lead with your forearm and helmet and struck your opponent hard in the head/neck region.
“You started a fight after the illegal strike, which you intensified when you yanked an opponent to the ground by his facemask.
“You took off your helmet and reengaged with your opponent while walking down and across the field after the referee declared that you were disqualified for the hit and your unsportsmanlike behavior, which sparked another altercation close to the end zone.
“It is concerning and inconsistent with the NFL’s core values that you lack sportsmanship and respect for the game of football and all those who play, coach, and watch it.”
“Your continued disregard for NFL playing rules puts the health and safety of both you and your opponents in jeopardy and will not be tolerated.”
When deciding to suspend Al-Shaair, the NFL probably considered some of his prior confrontations with rival players.
He tried to sack Tom Brady in 2022 while playing for the San Francisco 49ers, putting his hand around his neck and going after his throat.
Roschon Johnson, the opposing running back, wasn’t even on the field when Al-Shaair attacked him during a game against the Chicago Bears this season.
NFL important dates
August 1: Houston Texans vs. Chicago Bears Hall of Fame Game
August 8: The start of the preseason
The deadline for 53-man rosters is August 27.
September 1st is the last preseason day.
September 5: Baltimore Ravens vs. Kansas City Chiefs, season opener
The trade deadline is November 5.
January 5: Regular-season Week 18
January 11: The start of the playoffs
Super Bowl LIX in New Orleans, Louisiana, on February 9.
Following the hit, Al-Shaair apologized to Lawrence, saying he never meant to cause him any harm.
“I’ve always given the game my best effort. “Anyone who knows me knows that I never intend to hurt anyone,” he posted on social media.
“I hope you’re still able to stand up and play the following play after I hit you as hard as I can. And since it’s only competition and not personal, you can return home to your family unhurt after the game! We are both attempting to support our families, which is the same goal!
It wasn’t until it was too late that I realized he was sliding. And everything takes place in an instant. I truly sorry to Trevor for the events that transpired.
“We chatted before the game, and I wished you well and said it was wonderful to see you back on the field. I would never want to witness a player get wounded as a result of a hit I delivered, especially if it was considered “late” or “unnecessary.”
“To the rest of his teammates, I completely understand your support and defense of him in such a circumstance.
Read More on The US Sun
“To the others who have called me every name in the book—from reporters who are always on the lookout for a story to invent a villain to racist and Islamophobic fans and individuals—you have no idea who I am or what my heart is like, and I don’t have to prove it to any of you.
“God knows my intentions and anyone who has ever been a teammate or friend of mine knows my heart.”
Note: Every piece of content is rigorously reviewed by our team of experienced writers and editors to ensure its accuracy. Our writers use credible sources and adhere to strict fact-checking protocols to verify all claims and data before publication. If an error is identified, we promptly correct it and strive for transparency in all updates, feel free to reach out to us via email. We appreciate your trust and support!