Suspension Sidelines Damontae Kazee for Season
Pittsburgh Steelers safety Damontae Kazee's season has come to an abrupt end following a suspension handed down by the NFL. This decision stems from a hit that left Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Michael Pittman with a concussion, and it marks a significant setback for both Kazee and his team.
The Costly Hit
In a recent game, Kazee delivered a hit to Pittman that officials deemed illegal due to its impact on the head or neck area of a defenseless player. The NFL's Vice President of Football Operations, Jon Runyan, characterized the hit as a "serious rule violation," emphasizing the league's commitment to player safety. As a result of this incident, Kazee was ejected from the game.
This is not the first time Kazee has faced disciplinary action this season. Prior to the suspension, he had been fined five times for unnecessary roughness, with penalties totaling $59,030. The financial repercussions of his suspension are even more substantial, costing Kazee approximately $208,000 in lost salary.
Contractual Implications
Kazee is currently in his second year of a contract with the Steelers. His deal includes a $1.75 million signing bonus and salaries of $1.25 million for 2023 and $3 million for the following year, 2024. Despite the current circumstances, Kazee retains the right to appeal the suspension.
Reactions from the League
Runyan's statement following the incident was clear: "The illegal contact could have been avoided." This sentiment reflects the league's stance on such infractions and underscores the ongoing effort to protect players from avoidable harm on the field.
However, 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 incident, saying, "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."
Tom Brady, the legendary quarterback known for his outspoken views, weighed in on the broader issue of player safety, particularly as it pertains to hits like the one involving Kazee and Pittman. "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 criticized the tendency to blame defensive players for such incidents, advocating for better decision-making by 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!" Brady added.
Former NFL safety Mike Mitchell also shared his thoughts on the challenges faced by defensive players in today's 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, highlighting the difficulties of playing within the confines of the current rules. He continued, "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 to the absence of Kazee for the remainder of the season, the debate over player safety and the rules governing the sport continues. The tension between ensuring the well-being of players and maintaining the physical essence of football remains at the forefront of discussions among players, coaches, and fans alike.
Kazee's suspension serves as a reminder of the fine line that players walk each week and the consequences that can arise when that line is crossed, whether intentionally or not. With the appeal process available to him, there may be further developments in this story. However, for now, the Steelers must plan for a future without one of their key defensive players, and Kazee must confront the ramifications of a moment that has altered his career trajectory for the current season.