The Steelers WR reportedly has encountered this fan before.
A bizarre on-field incident involving Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver DK Metcalf during Sunday’s win over the Detroit Lions has taken on new context following a report from NFL Network.
Video circulating during the second quarter showed Metcalf reaching into the stands, grabbing a fan by the hair, and appearing to swipe at him near the sideline. No penalty flag was thrown on the play, and Metcalf remained in the game.
According to NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero, the interaction was not a random confrontation. Pelissero reported that Metcalf and the fan involved have a prior history dating back to Metcalf’s time with the Seattle Seahawks. During Seattle’s Week 4 visit to Detroit last season, Metcalf reportedly alerted Seahawks security about the same individual.
A source close to Metcalf told Pelissero that the fan directed a derogatory remark toward Metcalf’s mother and used language that crossed a significant line, described as “something we both know you don’t call a Black man.”
The Detroit Free Press later identified the fan as Ryan Kennedy. Kennedy denied using slurs and claimed he simply called Metcalf by his full name, which he said led to the confrontation.
Under NFL rules, because no flag was thrown during the play, officials were unable to eject Metcalf at the time of the incident. However, the league retains the authority to review the altercation and issue discipline after the fact.
Any potential punishment could have meaningful implications for Pittsburgh. Metcalf is widely regarded as the Steelers’ top offensive weapon, and a suspension would be a significant setback, particularly if the team must defeat the Cleveland Browns to clinch the AFC North.
The NFL has not yet announced whether it will take disciplinary action, but a review of the incident is widely expected.
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Category: General Sports
