Jacksonville Jaguars tight end Evan Engram received an $11,255 fine for retaliating against Houston Texans linebacker Azeez Al-Shaair following a hit on Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence that ended Lawrence's season. The incident occurred during the second quarter of their game, prompting a heated exchange between players from both teams. Engram was the first to react to Al-Shaair's tackle, which he deemed a "dirty hit."
Al-Shaair received a three-game suspension without pay, a punishment influenced by his involvement in the ensuing brawl. The hit resulted in Lawrence's second concussion in a year and necessitated shoulder surgery for an earlier injury. Lawrence later confirmed on social media that he was recovering at home. Texans coach DeMeco Ryans criticized the Jaguars' reaction, suggesting Lawrence shared responsibility for the incident. Conversely, Jaguars coach Doug Pederson defended his team's response and expressed surprise at Ryans' comments.
While Al-Shaair initially apologized and denied malicious intent, his subsequent social media posts following the denial of his suspension appeal adopted a more defiant tone, hinting at embracing a "villain" persona. The posts included images of him entering the field, a pro-Palestinian cleat, Heath Ledger's Joker, and a quote about relying on faith amidst rejection.
