The NFL unleashed a firestorm. statement A Houston Texans player suffered a concussion and blamed some of the anger over the hit on Islamophobia and racism.
In the second quarter of Sunday's game, Texans linebacker Azeez Al Shaair slammed into Trevor Lawrence as the Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback began to slide after a running play. Lawrence's head slammed into the ground and soon he exhibited what appeared It is thought to be an involuntary “fencing position” indicative of a traumatic brain injury.
“Your lack of sportsmanship and respect for the game of football and all those who play, coach and watch it is problematic.”
Lawrence's injury caused a huge scuffle between Texans and Jaguars players on the field. Lawrence was diagnosed with a concussion and entered concussion protocol. The team's coach said it has not yet been determined whether the quarterback will return for any games or simply sit out the remainder of the season if he clears regulations before the end of the season.
On Tuesday, NFL Vice President of Policy and Rules Management John Runyan released a letter accusing Al Sha'a'il of violating several player safety protocols.
“Video shows Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence being hit in the head and neck area after falling on an apparent feet-first slide,” Runyan wrote. “You took the lead with your forearm and helmet and delivered a powerful blow to your opponent's head/neck area when you had time and space to avoid such contact.”
To reduce the chance of brain injuries occurring, the NFL bans players from hitting quarterbacks if they slide while running to try to stop them, and also bans unnecessary blows to the head. I am doing it. Some critics say the new rules are too restrictive and difficult for defenders to comply with.
“Your lack of sportsmanship and respect for the game of football and all those who play, coach, and watch it is problematic and does not reflect the NFL's core values. No,” Ranyan added.
“You don't know my heart or my personality, but you don't have to prove it to anyone.”
On Monday, Mr. Al Shail released the following document: statement He apologized to Lawrence and said he did not mean to hurt him.
“I've always played the game as hard as I can. It was never my intention to hurt anyone and anyone who knows me knows that. My goal is to hit you as hard as I can. , so I hope you still win. Get up and make the next play,” he wrote.
“I really didn’t see it. [Lawrence] I kept sliding until it was too late,” he added. “And it all happens in the blink of an eye. Dear Trevor. [sic] In the end, I sincerely apologize for what happened. ”
He also criticized some fans who sent him racist and Islamophobic insults regarding the incident.
“The rest of the people I've been called every name in the book, from reporters preparing stories to find the villain, to racist and Islamophobic fans and people, you're my “I don't know your heart or my heart. This character doesn't need to be proven to you,” he added. “God knows my intentions and anyone who has ever been my teammate or friend knows my heart.”
Al Shair used the NFL charity campaign “My Cause, My Cleats” to show his beliefs. support He defended the Palestinian people and criticized Israel's military operations in the Gaza Strip.
“All praise be to Allah,” he wrote.
Lawrence also issued a short statement Sunday.
“Thank you to everyone who reached out/prayed for me. I'm home and feeling better. It means so much. Thank you everyone.” he wrote.
The Texans will play the Miami Dolphins, Kansas City Chiefs and Baltimore Ravens without Al Shail.
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