The NFL’s hearing officer, James Thrash, upheld the suspension of Pittsburgh Steelers safety Damontae Kazee Wednesday night following an appeal. Kazee will miss the remainder of the season.
However, there’s a chance Steelers fans could see Kazee suit up again before the year is up. The NFL also ruled that Kazee can return to the active roster if the Steelers reach the playoffs. Pittsburgh is currently 7-7 and 1 game out of a playoff spot with a perfect opportunity upcoming against Cincinnati.
Steelers’ safety Damontae Kazee’s suspension for the remainder of the regular season has been upheld. Kazee is eligible to return to the active roster for the playoffs, should the club qualify.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) December 21, 2023
The NFL originally suspended Kazee for the below hit on Colts wide receiver Michael Pittman.
Oh no Michael Pittman…🙏🏻
That was a brutal hit.pic.twitter.com/31J2ce5XL5
— JPAFootball (@jasrifootball) December 16, 2023
Pittman was forced to exit with a concussion following this play.
The NFL receives backlash for suspending Damontae Kazee
Tom Brady commented on a post this past week flaming the NFL for suspension following the hit on Pittman, insisting that instead quarterbacks should be to blame for putting receivers in dangerous situations with poorly placed balls.
And this suspension will hurt the Steelers. Kazee was in the middle of a strong 2nd season with the Steelers, sitting at 61 tackles with 2 interceptions, 2 fumble recoveries and 3 pass deflections.