The NFL has issued a two-game suspension without pay to Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver DK Metcalf following an incident involving a fan during Sunday’s game at Ford Field in Detroit. The league ruled that Metcalf violated its conduct policy by engaging in a physical altercation with a spectator.
In its statement, the NFL reiterated that players are strictly prohibited from entering the stands or confronting fans, and if this does happen, the player will be held accountable. The policy states that any unnecessary physical contact with spectators, particularly actions that could create safety concerns, will result in disciplinary action.
Metcalf is expected to appeal the suspension, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter. If there is no change, Metcalf would lose $555,556 in salary over the two games.
The fan involved, Detroit-area resident Ryan Kennedy, has denied allegations that he directed racist, misogynistic, or hate-related language toward Metcalf. In a statement released by his attorneys, Kennedy claimed the accusations circulating online are false and said he has since received threats and harassment due to the claims.
Video from the broadcast and social media shows Metcalf approaching the fan in the front row, grabbing him by the collar, and shoving him backward. The fan appeared to raise his hands after the contact.
This is not the first time Metcalf has had an issue with the same individual, as a source told ESPN he previously reported the fan while with the Seattle Seahawks during prior games in Detroit.
On the field, the suspension is a major blow to the Steelers’ offense. Metcalf leads the team in receiving yards with 850 and has been the primary wideout all season. The wide receiver group is already thin after Calvin Austin III exited Sunday’s win with a hamstring injury. Veteran Adam Thielen, recently claimed off waivers, led Steelers receivers against Detroit, while Scotty Miller also saw increased playing time.
Pittsburgh will be able to clinch the AFC North crown with a win in either of its final two games, away to Cleveland or at home against Baltimore.
