Trevor Lawrence hit is latest in Texans LB Azeez Al-Shaair's list of controversies
The hit that injured Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence in Sunday's NFL game at EverBank Stadium isn't the first controversy for Houston Texans linebacker Azeez Al-Shaair.
Far from the first.
Since the 2022 season, Al-Shaair has found himself in the spotlight for a variety of late or high hits on opponents, in several cases leading to fines from the league office.
Sunday's incident, in which he delivered a violent hit to the head of Lawrence as the Jaguars' fourth-year quarterback slid during the second quarter, is Al-Shaair's latest controversy. Officials ejected him from the game for the hit, which knocked Lawrence out of the game with a concussion. Al-Shaair apologized for the hit Monday. Houston went on to win 23-20, dropping the Jags to 2-10 on the year.
In addition to fans and Lawrence's Jags teammates, commentators around the league condemned the hit. Lawrence is beginning the week in the NFL concussion protocol for the second time in slightly less than one year.
As of Monday afternoon, the NFL office has yet to announce a punishment for the 27-year-old linebacker, but ESPN's Adam Schefter reported on Twitter/X that it is "anticipated" that the league will suspend Al-Shaair for a length of time still to be determined.
Based on his history in the past three seasons, Al-Shaair is a long way from a first-time offender.
Sept. 16, 2022: Al-Shaair big hit on Justin Fields
Playing for the San Francisco 49ers, Al-Shaair received a 15-yard penalty for a hard hit on Chicago Bears quarterback Justin Fields, who was attempting to slide on the play.
Dec. 11, 2022: Al-Shaair grabs Tom Brady by throat
Al-Shaair ignited controversy after grasping the throat of Tom Brady during the 49ers' 35-7 win over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Officials apparently failed to spot the play.
Sept. 10, 2023: Al-Shaair illegal hit on Derek Carr
In his first game for the Tennessee Titans, Al-Shaair delivered an illegal hit to New Orleans Saints quarterback Derek Carr. The NFL fined him $13,934 for the incident, as reported by the New Orleans Times-Picayune.
Nov. 12, 2023: Al-Shaair unnecessary roughness
Al-Shaair was flagged for unnecessary roughness with a facemask penalty in a 20-6 loss to the Buccaneers. The NFL fined him $10,927 for this foul.
Sept. 15, 2024: Al-Shaair late hit on Caleb Williams
Playing for the Texans, Al-Shaair sparked a large-scale altercation after a late hit on Bears quarterback Caleb Williams. During the ensuing scuffle, Al-Shaair punched Chicago running back Roschon Johnson along the sideline. He was not ejected, but later received a fine of $11,817 for the incident, as reported by Houston television station KPRC.
Oct. 6, 2024: Al-Shaair combo hit on Josh Allen
Al-Shaair hit Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen high in combination with teammate Mario Edwards. Allen subsequently entered the medical tent but returned to the game, in a sequence that prompted questions about the NFL's concussion protocol.
Nov. 24, 2024: Al-Shaair late hit on Tony Pollard
One week ago, Al-Shaair committed a late hit on running back Tony Pollard in the Texans' 32-27 loss to the Tennessee Titans, drawing a fine of $11,255.
Dec. 1, 2024: Al-Shaair dirty hit on Trevor Lawrence
Al-Shaair made an illegal lunging hit to the head of sliding Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence, sparking a massive brawl and knocking Lawrence out of the game with a concussion. Ejected immediately, Al-Shaair subsequently attempted to scuffle with several more Jaguars and sparred verbally with Jacksonville fans while being led from the field.