These verses contain two references to the second function prefigured in the azazel and performed by the Messiah, that of bearing sin. As it says in Leviticus 16:22, the azazel was to bear on itself all the iniquities of the people. Its primary role was bearing sins as a substitute. Verse 11 teaches that justification results from the Messiah bearing iniquities. Verse 12 uses the prophetic past-tense, saying that the Messiah bore the sins of many. When this prophecy was given, His work was as good as done. Here are two more clear scriptures about Christ that directly link to the role of the azazel. We are already on our third witness of a Messianic fulfillment of the azazel.
