Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr. (11) dives for a catch while Pittsburgh Steelers safety Damontae Kazee (23) defends in the first half at Lucas Oil Stadium. Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports

Steelers’ Damontae Kazee suspended for hit on Michael Pittman Jr.

Originally posted on Larry Brown Sports
By Steve DelVecchio | Last updated Dec 18, 2023 1:57 PM ET

Pittsburgh Steelers defensive back Damontae Kazee was ejected from Saturday’s game against the Indianapolis Colts over an illegal hit, and that will be the last snap he plays during the 2023 season.

The NFL announced on Monday that Kazee has been suspended for the remainder of the regular season. He will also have to sit out in the playoffs if the Steelers make it that far.

A press release from the league stated that Kazee’s suspension is the result of “repeated violations of playing rules intended to protect the health and safety of players.”

The announcement on the season-long suspension of Steelers’ safety Damontae Kazee: pic.twitter.com/TFjslvhGgp

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) December 18, 2023

Kazee lowered his head and delivered a helmet-to-helmet blow to Colts wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr. during Pittsburgh’s 30-13 loss to the Colts. You can see the play here.

Some argued that Kazee was trying to stay low and lead with his shoulder, but he did not receive the benefit of the doubt from the NFL. Part of the reason for that is he has been fined more than $50,000 in total this season for unnecessary roughness violations.

Kazee finishes the season with 61 total tackles and two interceptions. The Steelers are 7-7 and still in the playoff hunt, but Kazee’s year is done.

This article first appeared on Larry Brown Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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