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The Detroit Lions fan who got into an altercation with Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver DK Metcalf during a game Sunday night denied using derogatory language toward the player.
Ryan Kennedy issued a statement through Head Murphy Law in Michigan on Monday, denying allegations that he used the “N-word,” the “C-word” or “any racial, misogynistic or hate-based slur toward Metcalf.” Kennedy’s representatives called the allegations “completely false.”
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DK Metcalf #4 of the Pittsburgh Steelers watches during the game against the Detroit Lions at Ford Field on December 21, 2025 in Detroit, Michigan. (Nic Antaya/Getty Images)
“At no time before, during or after the incident did Mr. Kennedy use racial slurs or hate speech of any kind,” the statement read. “Claims suggesting otherwise are false and are not supported by video evidence, eyewitness accounts or any contemporaneous reports. Despite reports in the media last night and today, Mr. Kennedy has not used such language during an interaction with Mr. Metcalf or any other player in the past.
“Since these false statements began circulating with publicity, Mr. Kennedy has been the subject of harassment, threats and messages advocating violence, which has created serious concern for his and his family’s personal safety and well-being. No private individual should be falsely accused of such allegations or exposed to threats based on misinformation.”
The statement said Kennedy would have no further comment as legal proceedings are anticipated.
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver DK Metcalf (4) during the NFL game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Los Angeles Chargers on November 9, 2025, at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, CA. (Jevone Moore/Sportswire Icon)
DK METCALF, LAMAR JACKSON AND OTHER NFL PLAYERS WHO HAVE HAD ALTERCATIONS WITH FANS
Metcalf was seen confronting the fan, who was near the barrier on the Steelers bench. He took off the fan’s shirt and punched the man who was wearing a black and blue shirt and a blue wig.
The man told the Detroit Free Press that Metcalf was upset because he called the wide receiver by his full name.
However, NFL Network offered a conflicting report. The outlet said Metcalf reacted that way because the fan used derogatory language toward him and made a comment about his mother. Metcalf reportedly had a negative fan experience last year while playing for the Seattle Seahawks.
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Metcalf is expected to face disciplinary action in the form of a fine or suspension.
