NFL player wears “Stop the Genocide” strip in post-game interview
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- Houston Texans linebacker Azeez Al-Shaair used a post-game ESPN interview following a 30-6 playoff victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers Monday to display eye black inscribed with "STOP THE GENOCIDE”.
- A practicing Muslim and first-time Pro Bowler, Al-Shaair has consistently advocated for Palestinian causes, previously participating in the NFL's "My Cause My Cleats" initiative with "Free Palestine" footwear and donating to the Palestine Children's Relief Fund.
Houston Texans linebacker Azeez Al-Shaair made a prominent political statement during a post-game interview on ESPN's SportsCenter following his team's dominant victory in the AFC Wild Card Round on Monday.
Appearing alongside teammate Will Anderson Jr., Al-Shaair wore eye black inscribed with the phrase "STOP THE GENOCIDE," a message aimed at the ongoing ‘Israeli’ attack on the Gaza Strip.
In football, eye black (a black grease or sticker under the eyes) is used to reduce glare from bright sunlight or stadium lights, helping players see the ball and field better by absorbing light and improving contrast.
The Texans defeated the Pittsburgh Steelers 30-6, advancing to the Divisional Round against the New England Patriots.
In the game, Al-Shaair contributed six tackles, aligning with his strong season performance of 103 total tackles, two interceptions, and nine pass deflections, which earned him his first Pro Bowl selection.
Al-Shaair's message became visible during the helmetless interview, drawing immediate attention from viewers and social media users.
Al-Shaair, a practicing Muslim, has been an outspoken advocate for Palestinian causes since the ‘Israeli’ assault escalated over two years ago.
In November 2024, he participated in the NFL's "My Cause My Cleats" initiative, wearing footwear supporting "Free Palestine," and donated to the Palestinian Children’s Relief Fund.
Despite a reported ceasefire more than two months prior, the ‘Israeli’ military regularly carries out attacks in the Gaza Strip.
This is not Al-Shaair's first public expression on the matter; he has signed onto the Athletes for Ceasefire initiative and met with Gaza families in Houston.
