Season-Ending Suspension for Damontae Kazee
In a significant blow to the Pittsburgh Steelers' defensive lineup, safety Damontae Kazee will not return to the field this NFL season. The league has handed down a suspension following an incident that led to the injury of Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Michael Pittman.
The Incident and Its Aftermath
The ejection of Kazee came after a play where he delivered a hit that resulted in a concussion for Pittman. Hits to the head or neck area of a defenseless player are strictly prohibited by the NFL, a rule designed to protect players from serious injury. Jon Runyan, a key figure in the NFL's disciplinary process, characterized Kazee's action as a grave violation of the league’s rules on player safety.
This season has been particularly challenging for Kazee, who has faced multiple fines for unnecessary roughness. With five such penalties, his infractions have cost him $59,030. The latest suspension carries with it not only the loss of opportunity to contribute on the field but also a substantial financial penalty, approximately $208,000 in forfeited salary.
Kazee's Career and Financial Implications
Kazee's tenure with the Steelers is relatively short; he is currently in his second year with the team under a two-year contract. His deal includes a signing bonus of $1.75 million and salaries that amount to $1.25 million for 2023 and an increase to $3 million for the following year, 2024. Despite the setback, Kazee has the option to appeal the suspension, though details of any appeal process were not disclosed.
Reactions from the NFL Community
The hit and subsequent suspension have sparked comments from various figures within the NFL community. Jon Runyan expressed the view that the illegal contact made by Kazee was entirely avoidable. On the other side, Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin defended his player, stating unequivocally that Kazee is not a dirty player. Tomlin suggested that while the outcome was regrettable, the intent behind Kazee's actions did not align with the consequences, emphasizing that Kazee did not set out to cause harm.
Legendary quarterback Tom Brady weighed in on the broader issue of player safety, particularly concerning hard hits that result from plays. He pointed out that quarterbacks should avoid making throws that put their receivers at risk of such collisions. Brady argued for a more nuanced understanding of the dynamics on the field, implying that blame should not rest solely on the shoulders of defensive players when injuries occur due to hits.
Former NFL safety Mike Mitchell offered his perspective, highlighting the challenges faced by defensive players in today's game, which is governed by rules set largely by individuals who have never played professionally. Mitchell's comments suggest a disconnect between the rule-makers and the players who must navigate the complexities of the game under those rules.
Looking Ahead
The Steelers will have to adjust to the absence of Kazee, a player who brought experience and skill to their secondary. As the team moves forward without him, they will need to find ways to fill the void left by his suspension and ensure that their defense remains robust against their opponents' offenses.
Meanwhile, the conversation around player safety, the role of quarterbacks in preventing dangerous plays, and the fairness of the NFL's rules to defensive players continues. The balance between ensuring player safety and maintaining the physical essence of football remains a contentious topic. As the league evolves and adapts its regulations, the hope is that all stakeholders—players, coaches, and officials—can work together to protect the integrity of the game and the well-being of those who play it.