Suspension Sidelines Kazee for Season
In a significant blow to the Pittsburgh Steelers' defensive lineup, safety Damontae Kazee will not return to the gridiron this season. The NFL has handed down a suspension following an incident in which Kazee was involved during a recent game against the Indianapolis Colts. This disciplinary action stems from a hit that resulted in a concussion for Colts wide receiver Michael Pittman.
The Hit That Led to Suspension
The play in question saw Kazee ejected after delivering a hit that league officials deemed to be in violation of safety regulations. Specifically, the NFL prohibits hits to the head or neck area of a defenseless player, a rule designed to prevent serious injuries on the field. Jon Runyan, an NFL executive, characterized Kazee's action as a "serious rule violation," indicating the gravity with which the league views such infractions.
Over the course of the season, Kazee has been fined on five separate occasions for unnecessary roughness, accumulating penalties worth $59,030. The latest suspension carries not only disciplinary consequences but also financial ones, costing Kazee approximately $208,000 in lost salary.
Kazee's Contract and Future with the Steelers
Currently in his second season with the Steelers, Kazee's contract includes a $1.75 million signing bonus alongside annual salaries of $1.25 million for 2023 and an increase to $3 million for the 2024 season. Despite the setback of his suspension, Kazee holds the right to appeal the decision, a common procedural option for players facing league discipline.
Coaching and Player Reactions
Steelers Head Coach Mike Tomlin came to Kazee's defense, stating unequivocally that he does not view his player as having malicious intent on the field. "He's not a dirty player," Tomlin said, adding context to the situation by discussing the dynamics of the play. "Usually I talk about lowering the target. 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."
Calls for Quarterback Accountability
The debate over responsibility for in-game injuries often extends beyond the immediate players involved in the hit. Legendary quarterback Tom Brady weighed in on the issue, highlighting the role of quarterbacks in these dangerous situations. "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 opined.
Brady further criticized the tendency to place blame solely on defensive players, calling for better decision-making by quarterbacks. "To put the blame on the defensive player all the time is just flat out wrong. Need better QB play!! It's not OK [for] QBs to get your WRs hit because of your bad decisions!" he stated emphatically.
The Defensive Perspective
Former NFL safety Mike Mitchell echoed Brady's sentiments, focusing on the challenges defensive players face due to the evolving rules of the game. "I guess just let them catch it. If I were a WR I would dive for every catch. That would ensure no contact and a completed pass," Mitchell remarked sarcastically, underscoring the predicament defenders find themselves in when trying to avoid penalties while still playing effectively.
Mitchell also pointed out the difficulties that come with interpreting and adhering to the rules, particularly for those in positions like deep safety. "Playing deep safety in today's NFL where rules are made mostly by people who've never played is tough," he lamented, suggesting a disconnect between rule-makers and the realities experienced by players on the field.
Looking Ahead
As the Steelers adjust to the absence of Kazee for the remainder of the season, discussions around player safety, rule enforcement, and the responsibilities of all players on the field continue to shape the narrative of modern football. The balance between maintaining the physical essence of the sport and ensuring the well-being of its players remains a central concern for the NFL, teams, and fans alike.