Damontae Kazee Suspended for Season After Hit on Pittman
Suspension Sidelines Kazee for the Season
In a significant blow to the Pittsburgh Steelers' defensive lineup, safety Damontae Kazee will not see any more action on the gridiron this NFL season. The league has enforced a suspension following an incident that resulted in a serious injury to an opposing player.
Incident Details
During a recent game against the Indianapolis Colts, Kazee delivered a hit that led to a concussion for Colts wide receiver Michael Pittman. The nature of the contact, which occurred in the head or neck area of what officials deemed a defenseless player, immediately drew flags and ultimately led to Kazee's ejection from the game.
The NFL has strict rules in place designed to protect players from such dangerous plays, particularly when it comes to hits on defenseless receivers. Jon Runyan, a key figure in the NFL's disciplinary process, characterized Kazee's actions as a "serious rule violation," indicating the league's commitment to player safety.
Financial Repercussions
This is not the first time Kazee has faced disciplinary action for his on-field conduct this season. Prior to this incident, he had been fined on five separate occasions for unnecessary roughness, with penalties totaling $59,030. The current suspension carries with it a substantial financial consequence, costing Kazee approximately $208,000 in lost salary.
Kazee's contract details underscore the financial impact of the suspension. In his second year with the Steelers, he is playing under a two-year agreement that includes a $1.75 million signing bonus. His salaries are set at $1.25 million for 2023 and increase to $3 million for the 2024 season. While the suspension is a setback, Kazee does have the option to appeal the decision.
Responses to the Hit
The reaction within the football community to Kazee's hit and subsequent suspension has been mixed. Jon Runyan's statement was clear in its condemnation: "The illegal contact could have been avoided." This stance reflects a broader initiative within the NFL to clamp down on plays that jeopardize player health and safety.
Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin offered a different perspective, defending his player's character: "He's not a dirty player," Tomlin stated. He further elaborated on the nature of the collision, suggesting that both the receiver and defender were actively engaged in the play, making the outcome unfortunate rather than malicious. "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 added.
Tom Brady, known for his outspoken views, pointed to another aspect of the game that often goes unaddressed in discussions about player safety—quarterback responsibility. He argued that quarterbacks should avoid placing their teammates in vulnerable positions through risky passes. "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 also stressed that the blame should not always fall on the defensive player, calling for "better QB play."
Former NFL safety Mike Mitchell weighed in, highlighting the challenges defensive players face 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 remarked sarcastically. He also expressed frustration with rule changes, stating, "Playing deep safety in today's NFL where rules are made mostly by people who've never played is tough."
Looking Ahead
As the Steelers adjust their roster in response to Kazee's absence, the debate over player safety versus the physical nature of football continues. With voices from across the league weighing in, it's clear that finding the balance between protecting players and preserving the essence of the game remains a contentious and ongoing challenge. Meanwhile, Kazee's potential appeal looms, leaving open the possibility that this story may see further developments before the season concludes.
