Texans’ Azeez Al-Shaair Fined for Eye Black Message Advocating for Peace
In a move that’s sparked conversation around the league, Houston Texans linebacker Azeez Al-Shaair has been fined $11,593 by the NFL for wearing eye black bearing the message “Stop The Genocide” during a recent game against the Pittsburgh Steelers. The fine stems from a violation of the league’s uniform policy, which prohibits personal messages unless pre-approved by the league office.
The specific rule in question-outlined in Rule 6, Section 4, Article 8 of the NFL rulebook-states that players are not allowed to display personal messages in writing or illustration during any game day moments when they’re visible to the stadium or television audience. That includes pregame warmups, time on the bench, and postgame interviews. It’s a policy that’s been enforced consistently, regardless of the message’s nature or intent.
For Al-Shaair, the message was part of a broader effort he’s made throughout the season to use his platform to advocate for peace in the Middle East and raise awareness for the plight of Palestinians. He’s been vocal about the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, referencing the casualties resulting from Israel’s military operations following a deadly Hamas attack. While Israel has denied allegations of genocide, calling such claims antisemitic, the global conversation surrounding the conflict continues to be deeply complex and emotionally charged.
This isn’t the first time Al-Shaair has used his presence on the field to speak out. During the NFL’s annual “My Cause, My Cleats” campaign-a league-sanctioned initiative that allows players to spotlight causes close to their hearts-he wore cleats supporting the protection of Palestine.
His advocacy goes beyond footwear and eye black: Al-Shaair regularly hosts children at Texans home games, many of whom are amputees impacted by the violence overseas. It’s a gesture that speaks to the linebacker’s commitment to making a tangible difference off the field.
“If my platform can bring even a little hope to families in Palestine, then that is what I want to use it for,” Al-Shaair said in a statement.
The fine won’t change the rule, but it does raise questions about where the league draws the line between personal expression and uniform policy. The NFL has long walked a tightrope between maintaining a consistent standard and allowing players to express themselves on issues that matter to them. In Al-Shaair’s case, the message was clear, heartfelt, and deeply personal.
As the postseason looms and the spotlight grows even brighter, Al-Shaair’s actions are a reminder that for many players, the game is more than just football. It's also a platform-and what they choose to do with it can resonate far beyond the field.