The Houston Texans just recently signed veteran safety, Kareem Jackson, who has been suspended twice now for delivering what the NFL deems are illegal headshots. Although officiating has been finicky over recent years, Jackson believes the league might be trying to make an example out of him.
Kareem Jackson was asked about the difficulties of being away from the game due to the suspensions. The Texans' safety claims it has been tough for him. However, he does feel the NFL is trying to “single him out,” according to Aaron Wilson of KPRC Houston. His response is right around the 3:20 mark of the video below.
#Texans safety Kareem Jackson on being back with team, playing for his former teammate DeMeco Ryans and dealing with #NFL enforcement of rules ‘lower the strike zone' @KPRC2 pic.twitter.com/xYOMPic8Co
— Aaron Wilson (@AaronWilson_NFL) December 27, 2023
It's hard to prove whether or not NFL officials are “singling out” Kareem Jackson or not. With that said, the league has cracked down on big hits over the years. Especially when it's helmet-to-helmet contact. So, we can't really be all that shocked anymore when a player gets suspended for delivering a headshot like that.
Even so, it makes sense why Jackson is so frustrated. The league heavily favors the offense and it's difficult for defensive players to adjust in the middle of a play. Especially when the ball is in the air. Everything happens so quickly and more often than not, players are just trying to make a play. That seems to be the case for the Texans safety.
Oh well, he'll be able to play the final two games of the season with Houston. The Texans will take on the Tennessee Titans on Sunday. A win keeps them in the playoff hunt while a loss weakens their chances considerably.