Texans' Azeez Al-Shaair Touts Himself as NFL's Most Physical Player

The Pro Bowl linebacker believes his aggressive style sets him apart from the rest of the league.

Mar. 21, 2026 at 10:08pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Houston Texans linebacker Azeez Al-Shaair believes he is the most physical player in the NFL. Al-Shaair told former coach Jon Gruden that he feels he is "pound for pound" the most physical player in the league, citing the respect he has earned from other players around the league for his aggressive style of play.

Why it matters

Al-Shaair's physical brand of football fits perfectly with the Texans' defensive identity under head coach DeMeco Ryans. As the Texans look to build on their success, Al-Shaair's leadership and tone-setting presence will be crucial in maintaining their status as one of the NFL's most dominant defensive units.

The details

Al-Shaair, 28, is coming off his best season as a pro, earning his first Pro Bowl selection. He believes his physical style of play, which he says is inspired by legends like Ray Lewis, sets him apart from other linebackers in the league. Al-Shaair says many players have approached him with respect for the way he plays the game, even those he's never faced on the field.

  • Al-Shaair made his comments about being the NFL's most physical player on Jon Gruden's podcast.

The players

Azeez Al-Shaair

A Pro Bowl linebacker for the Houston Texans who is known for his aggressive, physical style of play.

DeMeco Ryans

The head coach of the Houston Texans, who has built the team's defense into one of the most dominant units in the NFL.

Reed Blankenship

A former Philadelphia Eagles team captain who recently joined the Texans, adding another standout voice and leader to the team's defensive backfield.

Ray Lewis

A legendary NFL linebacker whose physical style of play inspired Al-Shaair's approach to the game.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I truly do feel like-- pound for pound-- just, I am one of the most physical. If not, the most physical player in the league.”

— Azeez Al-Shaair, Linebacker

“The amount of respect that I was given, and every guy talking to me, guys that I didn't even know were paying attention to me or whatever. That I might never have even played against. It's like, 'Dude, like the way you play the game is different, like.'”

— Azeez Al-Shaair, Linebacker

What’s next

As the Texans look to build on their success, Al-Shaair's leadership and physical presence will be crucial in maintaining their status as one of the NFL's top defensive units.

The takeaway

Azeez Al-Shaair's aggressive, physical style of play has earned him the respect of players around the league, and he believes it sets him apart as one of the most dominant linebackers in the NFL. This mentality aligns perfectly with the Texans' defensive identity, and will be key to their continued success.