Steelers' Kazee Out for Season Following Suspension
Steelers' Damontae Kazee Suspended for Season After Violent Hit
In a significant blow to the Pittsburgh Steelers' defensive lineup, safety Damontae Kazee will not be returning to the field this season. The NFL has handed down a suspension following a controversial play that resulted in a concussion for Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Michael Pittman.
The incident occurred when Kazee delivered a hit to the head or neck area of Pittman, who was deemed defenseless at the time of contact. The league's rules are explicit about protecting players in vulnerable positions from such hits, aiming to reduce the risk of serious injuries.
NFL's Stance on Player Safety
Jon Runyan, a key figure in the NFL's disciplinary actions, characterized Kazee's hit as a grave infraction of the league's safety protocols. "The illegal contact could have been avoided," Runyan stated, underscoring the league's commitment to player safety and the expectation that athletes adhere to the rules designed to protect them.
This is not the first instance this season where Kazee's style of play has come under scrutiny. The safety has accrued fines totaling $59,030 due to five separate incidents of unnecessary roughness, suggesting a pattern of behavior that the NFL has decided to address with more than just financial penalties.
The Financial Repercussions
Kazee's suspension carries substantial financial consequences for the player. Beyond the accumulated fines, he stands to lose approximately $208,000 in salary—a significant sum that reflects the severity with which the NFL views such violations.
Despite the financial and professional setback, Kazee may choose to appeal the suspension. This process would involve a review of the punishment and could potentially lead to a reduction or overturning of the decision, depending on the findings of the appeal.
Kazee's Contract and Future with the Steelers
Currently in his second year with the Steelers, Kazee is playing under a two-year contract that includes a $1.75 million signing bonus. His salaries are set at $1.25 million for 2023 and will increase to $3 million for the 2024 season. The suspension, therefore, not only affects his immediate participation but also casts a shadow over his future earnings and standing with the team.
Support from the Steelers
Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin defended his player, stating emphatically, "He's not a dirty player." Tomlin went on to describe the collision as an unfortunate byproduct of the sport, emphasizing that Kazee did not intentionally engage in the kind of conduct that led to the ejection and subsequent suspension. "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,” Tomlin elaborated.
Broader Perspectives on NFL Hits and Responsibilities
The conversation around hard hits and player safety extends beyond the Steelers' locker room. Legendary quarterback Tom Brady weighed in, expressing concern over the nature of plays that leave receivers vulnerable. "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, shifting some responsibility onto quarterbacks for making safer decisions with their throws.
Brady further criticized the tendency to blame defensive players exclusively, calling for better judgment from quarterbacks: "To put the blame on the defense player all the time is just flat out wrong. Need better QB play!! It's not OK QBs to get your WRs hit because of your bad decisions!"
Former NFL safety Mike Mitchell also chimed in, highlighting the challenges faced by defensive players in adapting to the evolving rulebook. "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 said sarcastically, before adding, "Playing deep safety in today's NFL where rules are made mostly by people who've never played is tough."
As the Steelers recalibrate their defense without Kazee and the NFL continues to enforce its player safety policies, the debate over the balance between aggressive play and protection of athletes remains a contentious issue within the sport. Meanwhile, Kazee's potential appeal looms as the next development in this ongoing story.
