DK Metcalf Makes 'Troubling' Accusation Against Detroit Lions Fan

Originally posted on The Spun | By Daniel Bates | Last updated Dec 22, 2025 12:13 PM ET

Fans were pretty shocked on Sunday when cameras caught Steelers wide receiver DK Metcalf getting into it with a fan behind the team's bench.

At one moment during the second quarter of yesterday's action, Metcalf could be seen throwing what appeared to be a punch at a person in the crowd — with other angles showing the two-time Pro Bowler grabbing the fan's collar and pulling him closer before shoving him away.

"He came over because the fan in the stands was holding a '4' Pittsburgh jersey, he went over, and the fan said something to him," CBS' Tracy Wolfson reported on the broadcast. "Obviously, Metcalf did not like what he said, and you saw the swipe there. No Steelers came over to him and mentioned anything."

Nov 23, 2025; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver DK Metcalf (4) reacts after a touchdown against the Chicago Bears during the first half at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Mike Dinovo-Imagn Images© Mike Dinovo-Imagn Images

Fan allegedly used racial slur towards Metcalf, DK's mother

According to former NFL receiver Chad Johnson, the reason Metcalf reacted how he did was because the fan was making derogatory comments about both his race and his mother — something that was discussed on Monday's "Nightcap."

“Obviously I am not condoning putting your hands on a fan or punching the fan but he did call him a racial slur, called him the N-word and he did call his mom a c—t,” Johnson explained to partner Shannon Sharpe.

“I think with those words being exchanged and the fan saying that, I think that’s where the action occurred that he, I think he threw a punch I am not sure if he connected or whatever," the ex-Bengals wideout continued. "But he did call him the N-word and he did call his mom a c—t… That’s a bad combination and it caused DK to react.”

Via @ochocinco, DK Metcalf alleges that the #Lions fan he confronted on Sunday was calling him a racial slur and making a crude, derogatory comment about his mother.

pic.twitter.com/Zm2Pkw1X6t https://t.co/0IT7zz95XU
— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) December 22, 2025

Fan says he called Steelers star by his 'government name'

In an interview with the Detroit Free Press following the Lions' loss, the fan claimed that he was merely calling Metcalf by his full name (DeKaylin Zecharius Metcalf) and that was enough to elicit a reaction from the 6'4" 229 lbs star.

“What, my full name isn’t is DeKaylin Zecharius Metcalf," the fan told the outlet. "He doesn’t like his government name. I called him that and then he grabbed me and ripped my shirt. I’m a little shocked. Like everyone’s talking to me. I’m a little rattled, but I just want the Lions to win, baby."

Metcalf also previously reported the same fan to Seahawks security a year ago, according to the NFL Network. But some sort of discipline is likely coming for Pittsburgh's top target.

This article first appeared on The Spun and was syndicated with permission.

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