Overview

• Houston Texans linebacker Azeez Al-Shaair received a three-game suspension for a hit on Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence during a recent game.
• The hit, which occurred as Lawrence was sliding, led to a concussion for the quarterback and sparked a brawl between the teams.
• The NFL cited Al-Shaair’s history of 13 rule violations, including multiple fines, as a factor in upholding the suspension after his appeal was denied.
• Al-Shaair apologized for the hit, stating it was unintentional, but also posted on social media expressing defiance toward being labeled a villain.
• Former teammates and NFL figures, including Arik Armstead and J.J. Watt, have defended Al-Shaair’s character while condemning the personal attacks and racism he has faced.