NFL Safety Damontae Kazee Suspended for Season After Hit
Damontae Kazee Suspended for Season Following Hit on Pittman
In a significant blow to the Pittsburgh Steelers' defensive lineup, safety Damontae Kazee will miss the remainder of the NFL season due to a suspension. This disciplinary action comes after an incident in which Kazee was ejected for a hit that led to a concussion for Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Michael Pittman.
The hit, which occurred during a recent game, has been widely scrutinized and debated within the NFL community. The league's rules explicitly state that any hits to the head or neck area of a defenseless player are subject to a foul, and in this case, the enforcement was swift and severe.
Jon Runyan, an NFL executive, characterized Kazee's hit as a serious rule violation. He noted the potential for such actions to cause significant injury, emphasizing that the illegal contact could have been avoided. This sentiment underlines the NFL's ongoing commitment to player safety, particularly in relation to concussions and other head injuries.
History of Fines and Financial Implications
Kazee's aggressive style of play has come under scrutiny before. Throughout the season, he has been fined five times for unnecessary roughness, accruing penalties totaling $59,030. The latest suspension carries with it not only a professional setback but also a substantial financial penalty, costing Kazee approximately $208,000 in lost salary.
Currently in his second season with the Steelers, Kazee's contract details reveal a two-year agreement with the team, featuring a $1.75 million signing bonus, a $1.25 million salary for 2023, and a projected $3 million for the following year. Despite the setback of his suspension, Kazee retains the right to appeal the decision, offering him a potential avenue to challenge the ruling and its consequences.
Coaches and Players Weigh In
Steelers' head coach Mike Tomlin came to Kazee's defense, stating emphatically that the player is not known for dirty play. Tomlin elaborated on the circumstances of the hit, suggesting that while the outcome was unfortunate, it was not indicative of Kazee's character or playing style. "Usually I talk about lowering the target," Tomlin said. "The target was low and both guys were going. It was just unfortunate. I know he is not a dirty player. He doesn't aspire to do some of the things that came to light under those circumstances.”
Tom Brady, the legendary quarterback known for his outspoken views, offered a different perspective on the situation. Brady pointed out that quarterbacks share in the responsibility to protect their receivers by making safe throws. "Nobody likes seeing players hurt. But hard hits happen. QBs should not be throwing the ball in areas where they are exposing their own teammates to these types of hits," Brady commented. He further criticized the tendency to blame defensive players exclusively, calling for better decision-making from quarterbacks. "It's not OK for QBs to get your WRs hit because of your bad decisions!" Brady added.
Former NFL safety Mike Mitchell echoed Brady's sentiments, highlighting the challenges defensive players face under the current rules. He suggested a somewhat facetious strategy for receivers, proposing that diving for every catch would prevent contact and ensure a completed pass. "Playing deep safety in today's NFL, where rules are made mostly by people who've never played, is tough," Mitchell stated, reflecting a sense of frustration shared by many defensive players over the evolution of the game's regulations.
Looking Ahead
As the Steelers adjust their roster in the wake of Kazee's suspension, the debate over player safety versus the integrity of the game continues to rage. While the NFL's efforts to reduce head injuries are commendable, the implementation of rules and subsequent penalties often leave players and fans alike in a state of contention. What remains clear is the need for a balanced approach that protects players without compromising the competitive nature of football—a challenge that the league must navigate with care and consideration.
