NFL Upholds Suspension of Steelers' DK Metcalf Following Incident with Fan
The NFL has upheld a two-game suspension for Pittsburgh Steelers star DK Metcalf after an altercation with a fan during the December 21, 2025 game against the Detroit Lions in Detroit. Metcalf was suspended for violating league policies, including entering the stands and confronting fans, as well as unsportsmanlike conduct posing potential crowd-control risks.
The incident involved a fan named Ryan Kennedy, who was accused of using derogatory language toward Metcalf. Kennedy denies the allegations of hate speech, and his representatives have stated that claims of racial or hate speech are false and unsupported by video evidence, eyewitness accounts, or contemporaneous reporting.
During the incident near the Steelers' sideline barrier, Metcalf pulled Kennedy's shirt and swung at him. Kennedy was noted to be wearing a black and blue shirt along with a blue wig in Ford Field, Detroit.
Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin addressed the situation publicly, expressing support for Metcalf. Tomlin acknowledged Metcalf's explanation of his actions and while not condoning the behavior, affirmed his support for the player.
As a result of the suspension, Metcalf will miss the final two games of the Steelers' 2025 season.
