The brutal hit on Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence by Houston Texans linebacker Azeez Al-Shaair in Week 13 of the 2024 NFL season ignited a firestorm of controversy, resulting in a three-game suspension for Al-Shaair. This article delves into the incident, the ensuing reactions, and former NFL linebacker Shawne Merriman’s exclusive commentary on the matter.
Houston Texans linebacker Azeez Al-Shaair (0) warms up before the game. Inset, Shawne Merriman and Trevor Lawrence.
While some, like former NFL player Logan Ryan, argued the suspension was excessive, the overwhelming consensus was that Al-Shaair’s actions warranted significant disciplinary measures. Even legendary quarterback Tom Brady, while emphasizing the importance of quarterbacks protecting themselves, acknowledged the egregious nature of the late hit.
Shawne Merriman Condemns Al-Shaair’s “Cheap Shot”
Former NFL linebacker Shawne Merriman, in an exclusive interview with NFL Analysis Network, didn’t mince words when discussing the incident. Merriman, a first-round pick in 2005, characterized the hit as “cheap” and unnecessary.
Azeez Al-Shaair #0 of the Houston Texans takes off his helmet before a fight during the second quarter of a game against the Jacksonville Jaguars a…
He argued that there are ample opportunities throughout a game to make a clean, impactful play without resorting to targeting a defenseless player. Merriman highlighted the potential for serious and permanent injury from such a hit, especially to the head. Al-Shaair’s actions, he said, risked causing lasting harm to Lawrence.
The Aftermath and Merriman’s Disappointment
Lawrence, returning from a shoulder injury, was diagnosed with a concussion after the game, putting his availability for the Jaguars’ upcoming game against the Titans in doubt. The incident also sparked an on-field brawl, with players from both teams engaging in a heated confrontation.
Merriman expressed his greater disappointment not with the initial hit but with Al-Shaair’s subsequent behavior. Instead of showing concern for Lawrence or disengaging from the situation, Al-Shaair instigated a fight, drawing his teammates into the fray. Merriman criticized this reaction, pointing out that it forced teammates to defend his actions and led to fines and suspensions across the team.
Merriman’s Emphasis on Clean Play
Merriman emphasized his belief in hard-hitting, physical football but drew a clear line between aggressive play and dirty tactics. He condemned Al-Shaair’s hit as having no place in the game, regardless of the league’s evolving rules. He concluded by stating that such actions tarnish the integrity of the sport. The former linebacker’s strong words underscore the seriousness of the incident and the importance of player safety in the NFL. The incident served as a stark reminder of the potential consequences of reckless play and the need for accountability within the league.
