Texans GM: NFL VP's Azeez Al-Shaair Letter Was 'Bulls--t' amid Criticism, Suspension

Following the announcement of a three-game suspension for Houston Texans linebacker Azeez Al-Shaair that included a critical letter from NFL Vice President of Football Operations Jon Runyan, Texans general manager Nick Caserio is coming to the player's defense.

While speaking to reporters on Tuesday, Caserio said of the letter, "Quite frankly, it's bulls--t."

Al-Shaair was suspended for his illegal hit on Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence in Sunday's game, which caused the signal-caller to suffer a concussion.

The veteran linebacker didn't show much remorse as a brawl ensued after the play before he was ejected from the game.

As part of his letter to Al-Shaair, Runyan wrote, "Your lack of sportsmanship and respect for the game of football and all those who play, coach, and enjoy watching it, is troubling and does not reflect the core values of the NFL. ... Your continued disregard for NFL playing rules puts the health and safety of both you and your opponents in jeopardy and will not be tolerated."

Caserio made it clear that his issue is with the letter and how Al-Shaair is being painted by the NFL and others around the league, adding that he believes they should be supporting the 27-year-old. He praised Al-Shaair for his impact on the Texans in his first season with the team.

"Azeez Al-Shaair, nobody embodies our program more than Azeez," Caserio said. "There isn't a more selfless person than Azeez."

However, it should be noted that Al-Shaair has incurred nearly $48,000 in fines for his involvement in on-field incidents over his six-year career, per Spotrac.

Houston will be on a bye in Week 14 before returning to action on Dec. 15 against the Miami Dolphins.