DETROIT — Pittsburgh Steelers DK Metcalf is being suspended through the rest of the regular season after an incident with a Detroit Lions fan on Sunday, reports say.
Metcalf was seen swiping at a fan after grabbing him by the shirt.
NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero reports that Metcalf has been suspended for two games without pay for the incident.
The NFL is suspending Steelers WR DK Metcalf two games without pay for physically confronting a Lions fan during Sunday’s win at Detroit, per sources.
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) December 22, 2025
Metcalf, who had reported the same fan to security last season, plans to appeal. pic.twitter.com/c3EisNDHjD
Metcalf’s suspension is for “conduct detrimental to the league,” NFL Network reports.
From the NFL:
— Jenna Harner (@JennaHarner11) December 22, 2025
“Metcalf’s actions, violate league policy, which specifies that “players may not enter the stands or otherwise confront fans at any time on game day” https://t.co/0zcxRnasJr
A statement released by Head Murphy Law identifies the fan whom Metcalf was seen taking a swipe at during the game against the Detroit Lions at Ford Field on Sunday evening as Ryan Kennedy.
The statement says allegations have been made that Kennedy used slurs or profanities against Metcalf.
“Ryan Kennedy categorically denies using the “N-word,” the “C-word,” or any racial, misogynistic, or hate-based slur during the incident,” the statement said in part.
The fan involved in the altercation with DK Metcalf at Ford Field Sunday has identified himself as Ryan Kennedy.
— Shelby Cassesse (@ShelbyCassesse) December 22, 2025
He released a statement through attorneys and “categorically denies using the ‘N-word,’ the ‘C-word,’ or any racial, misogynistic, or hate-based slur”. pic.twitter.com/1GTsEUy5Er
The statement also denies that Kennedy has said anything similar to Metcalf or other players in the past.
NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero reports that Kennedy and Metcalf have had a history, with the athlete reporting him to Seahawks security last year.
Pelissero also reports that Metcalf plans to appeal the suspension.
Head Murphy Law said Kennedy fears for his and his family’s safety and added that Kennedy will not provide further comment at this time.
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