The Houston Texan’s 23-20 victory over the Jacksonville Jaguars on Sunday was marred by a horrific tackle on Jaguars QB Trevor Lawrence made by Texans Linebacker Azeez Al-Shaair.
In the second quarter, the quarterback scrambled left on a play and attempted to slide. Al-Shaair met Lawrence with his elbows raised, slamming his head into the ground. Lawrence lifted his clenched fists in the air, known as the “fencing response,” typically an indication of a traumatic brain injury.
Al-Shaair, who was ejected following the hit, is now facing the potential of suspension. On Monday, he took to his X account to offer an apology:
“I’ve always played the game as hard as I could. Never with the intent to harm anyone and anybody that knows me knows that. My goal is to hit you as hard as I can then I pray you’re still able to get up and play the next play.
And when the game is over go home to your family unharmed because it’s not personal, it’s just competition! We both are trying to do the same thing, which is provide for our families! I genuinely didn’t see him sliding until it was too late. And it all happens in the blink of an eye.
To Trevor, I genuinely apologize to you for what ended up happening. Before the game we spoke, and I told you how it was great to see you back out on the field and wished you well.“
Trevor Lawrence also took to his X account to update fans on his condition:
“Thank you to everyone who has reached out / been praying for me. I’m home and feeling better. Means a lot, thank you all.”
Al-Shaair was fined $11,817 earlier this season by the NFL for punching Bears RB Roschon Johnson. NFL insider Adam Schefter claims that while the LB is facing suspension following the hit, the only question is “for how long.”
