Texans’ Azeez Al-Shaair hit with another fine for Illegal Hit
Houston Texans linebacker Azeez Al-Shaair has been fined $23,186 by the NFL for unnecessary roughness stemming from a hit in last week’s game against the Los Angeles Chargers. The league cited Al-Shaair for use of the helmet on the play, which officials did not penalize during the game.
A recurring issue
This marks the third fine this season for Al-Shaair, who has developed a reputation for crossing the line with illegal hits. He was previously disciplined for a hit on a defenseless receiver against the Denver Broncos and for roughing the passer against the Tennessee Titans. Last season, his dangerous play resulted in a three-game suspension after a hit that concussed Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence and sparked a sideline-clearing altercation.
Minimal financial impact
While the fines continue to pile up, the financial deterrent appears minimal for the linebacker, who is in the first year of a three-year, $34 million contract. For a player with his history, the league’s discipline seems to have done little to change his aggressive and often penalized style of play.