From OutKick · Armando Salguero · · 1m 20s
Texans' Al-Shaair fined again for eyeblack message
The linebacker wrote a Palestinian girl's name on his eyeblack, violating NFL personal message rules.
In brief
The linebacker wrote a Palestinian girl's name on his eyeblack, violating NFL personal message rules. NFL players face fines for displaying unapproved personal messages, even tributes, during games. Originally reported by OutKick.
Another fine for Al-Shaair
Texans linebacker Azeez Al-Shaair will be fined $11,492 for writing a Palestinian girl's name on his eyeblack during Sunday's game against Buffalo.
The name on his face
Al-Shaair, who is Muslim, wrote Hind Rajab's name in tribute during the 36-31 loss. He kept it on even during postgame interviews.
NFL's personal message rule
Players can't display personal messages when visible to stadium or TV audiences unless approved in advance by the league office.
Who was Hind Rajab
The five-year-old girl was killed in Gaza City in January 2024. Muslims view her death as evidence of genocide, while the IDF calls it a tragic mistake.
The incident in Gaza
IDF troops fired at Rajab's vehicle and a Red Crescent ambulance. Her body and six others were recovered 12 days later.
Not his first violation
In January, Al-Shaair was fined $11,593 for wearing eyeblack inscribed with "Stop the Genocide."
Fines are pocket change
Al-Shaair signed a three-year, $54 million extension with a $14 million signing bonus. He won't appeal the fine.
The takeaway
NFL players face fines for displaying unapproved personal messages, even tributes, during games.
