Damontae Kazee Suspended for Season After Controversial Hit
Suspension Sidelines Damontae 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 National Football League has handed down a suspension following an incident that left Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Michael Pittman with a concussion.
The ejection of Kazee came as a result of a hit during a recent game—a hit that has stirred considerable controversy and discussion about player safety in the NFL. According to league rules, any contact to the head or neck area of a defenseless player is considered a foul, and in this case, the league's disciplinary officer, Jon Runyan, deemed Kazee's action a severe violation of these safety protocols.
Financial Repercussions
Kazee's on-field conduct has come at a high cost this season, both to his reputation and his wallet. Prior to the suspension, he had already been fined five times for unnecessary roughness, accumulating penalties totaling $59,030. The suspension adds a financial sting, as it will result in approximately $208,000 in lost salary for the Steelers safety.
Despite the punitive measures, Kazee has the option to appeal the suspension. However, details on whether he intends to pursue this course of action have not been disclosed.
Contractual Implications
Kazee's absence will be felt by the Steelers, where he has played since signing a two-year contract with the team. His current deal includes a $1.75 million signing bonus, with salaries of $1.25 million for the 2023 season and $3 million for the 2024 season. The suspension will undoubtedly affect his earnings for this year and potentially impact his future with the organization.
Responses from the Football Community
The incident and subsequent suspension have sparked comments from various figures within the football community. NFL executive Jon Runyan stated, "The illegal contact could have been avoided," underscoring the league's position on such hits.
Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin came to Kazee's defense, emphasizing that the player is not known for dirty play. "He doesn't aspire to do some of the things that came to light under those circumstances,” Tomlin said, suggesting the hit was an unfortunate part of the game rather than a reflection of Kazee's character or intentions.
Legendary quarterback Tom Brady weighed in on the broader issue of player safety and responsibility. He criticized the tendency to blame defensive players for hard hits, pointing out that quarterbacks must also be accountable for the throws they make that can put their receivers in vulnerable positions. "To put the blame on the defense player all the time is just flat out wrong. Need better QB play!!" Brady argued, highlighting the need for quarterbacks to avoid making passes that lead to dangerous collisions.
Former NFL safety Mike Mitchell expressed the difficulties defensive players face in adapting to the evolving rules designed to protect players. Commenting on the complexity of playing deep safety in today's NFL, Mitchell suggested that rule-makers lack a comprehensive understanding of the on-field experience. He also made a sarcastic remark about how receivers could avoid contact altogether, reflecting the frustration some feel about the current state of play.
Looking Ahead
As the Steelers adjust to the absence of Kazee, questions arise about the balance between enforcing player safety and maintaining the physical nature of football. The debate over who bears responsibility for in-game injuries—whether it's the defenders, the quarterbacks, or the nature of the sport itself—continues to be a contentious topic among players, coaches, and fans alike.
While the NFL remains firm in its stance against hits that endanger player welfare, voices like Tomlin, Brady, and Mitchell remind us that the conversation is far from settled. As the league evolves, so too does the dialogue around what constitutes fair and safe play.
Damontae Kazee's suspension serves as a stark reminder of the consequences players face in an era increasingly focused on safety. It also underscores the ongoing challenge the NFL faces in finding the right balance between protecting its players while preserving the essence of a game defined by its physicality.
