Texans' Azeez Al-Shaair Fined for Viral Hit on Cam Ward in Week 4 Win vs. Titans

Houston Texans linebacker Azeez Al-Shaair has been fined for his violent collision with Tennessee Titans rookie quarterback Cam Ward in Week 4.

According to NFL Network's Tom Pelissero, Al-Shaair was fined $17,389 for roughing the passer following a hit to Ward's head and neck area after he threw the ball in the first quarter of Houston's 26-0 win over the Titans.

He wasn't penalized for the contact during the game.

A fine for Al-Shaair still appeared to be on the horizon, as ESPN's Jeremy Fowler reported Wednesday that the NFL was reviewing the incident.

The 28-year-old finished with three tackles and one pass defended in the victory.

Saturday's fine marked Al-Shaair's first of the season for roughing the passer. According to the NFL's fines and appeals schedule, he'll face a $23,186 fine if he records a second offense.

Al-Shaair has committed his fair share of infractions heading into his 2025 campaign, as he picked up five fines worth $68,488 over the prior two years combined (via Spotrac).

He was also suspended for three games during the 2024 season following a hit to the head of Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence and was called out by NFL Vice President of Policy and Rules Administration Jon Runyan.

"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," Runyan said regarding Al-Shaair in Dec. 2024. "... 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."

While Al-Shaair won't be suspended again for his latest hit, he did incur another financial penalty.

The seventh-year linebacker has totaled 28 tackles, two passes defended and one forced fumble in four appearances this season.