The NFL financially sanctioned Houston Texans defensive back Azeez Al-Shair for protesting against the genocide committed by Israel in the Gaza Strip, after the wild card round game against the Pittsburgh Steelers on January 12, according to reports from the ESPN portal.
Al-Shair wrote in the black paint under the eyes, characteristic of American football players, the slogan “Stop the Genocide.” Under league rules, players are prohibited from transmitting personal messages, whether in writing or through illustrations, unless they have prior approval from the NFL.
“I feel like it’s something that’s trying to be silenced. On any side, it’s not right for people to lose their lives,” the player declared in an interview with the Houston Chronicle.
In January 2025, it emerged that the NFL also fined defensive back Nick Bosa for interrupting an interview while wearing a cap with the phrase “Make America Great Again,” associated with President Donald Trump.
