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Pittsburgh Steelers star wide receiver DK Metcalf was suspended two games by the NFL for an altercation with a fan during the team’s victory over the Detroit Lions on Sunday.
The league said Metcalf’s actions violated league policy, which states that “players may not enter the stands or confront fans at any time on game day and … if a player makes unnecessary physical contact with a fan in any manner that constitutes unsportsmanlike conduct or presents crowd control issues and/or risk of injury, he or she will be liable.”
Metcalf was seen grabbing the Lions fan’s jersey and blue Honolulu wig as he punched him before returning to the sideline. The CBS broadcast captured the interaction, although officials did not see Metcalf involved in any incident as he continued to play in the 29-24 road win. He had four receptions for 42 yards.
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Pittsburgh Steelers’ DK Metcalf wipes his face on the bench during the second half of an NFL football game against the Detroit Lions, Sunday, Dec. 21, 2025, in Detroit. (AP Photo/Rey Del Río)
The fan in question, identified as Ryan Kennedy, denied using explicit or derogatory language toward Metcalf, but instead told the Detroit Free Press that he called Metcalf by his full name – DeKaylin Zecharius Metcalf – and that sparked fury.
“Kind of surprised. Like everyone is talking to me. I’m a little nervous, but I just want the Lions to win, honey,” the fan, identified as Ryan Kennedy, told the newspaper.
“What, my full name is not DeKaylin Zecharius Metcalf,” he added. “He doesn’t like the name of his government. I called him that and then he grabbed me and tore my shirt.”
Kennedy later issued a statement through a Michigan law firm, saying that allegations that he used hate speech were false.
The NFL told the Free Press it could not intervene regarding an ejection because the incident did not occur on the field. But after clearly seeing Metcalf get involved, they imposed a massive suspension considering the Steelers’ playoff hopes.
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)
Metcalf will reportedly appeal the suspension.
Pittsburgh has a two-game lead over the Baltimore Ravens in the AFC North after the latter fell to the New England Patriots on Sunday night. The Steelers need one more win to clinch the division, but Metcalf’s absence could affect how the Steelers operate on offense.
The Steelers play the 3-12 Cleveland Browns in Week 17, followed by a regular-season finale against the Ravens at Pittsburgh’s Acrisure Stadium in Week 18.
“I heard about it, but I hadn’t seen it,” coach Mike Tomlin said of the Metcalf incident after the game. “I hadn’t had a chance to talk to DK.”
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Metcalf did not meet with the media after the game. You have the right to appeal the suspension if you wish.
