Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

DK Metcalf Receives Good News Amid NFL Suspension

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Ayomide Adeduyite | Last updated Dec 28, 2025 1:31 PM ET

The Pittsburgh Steelers (9-6) entered the final stretch of the 2025 regular season fighting for the AFC North title when an altercation with a Detroit Lions fan in Week 16 suddenly put their top receiving weapon in jeopardy.

Wide receiver DK Metcalf, acquired in March from the Seattle Seahawks and under a four-year, $132 million contract, was suspended for two games without pay by the NFL for initiating contact with the fan, a decision upheld on appeal. The suspension means Metcalf will miss both Sunday's Week 17 game against the Cleveland Browns and the Week 18 finale at the Baltimore Ravens as Pittsburgh seeks to secure its place in the postseason.

Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver DK Metcalf.Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images

Immediately after the incident, a report from CBS confirmed that language in Metcalf’s contract could allow the Steelers to void up to $45 million in future guaranteed money, specifically $25 million fully guaranteed in 2026 and $20 million in injury guarantees, because the clauses are tied to participation and conduct.

However, according to Fox NFL reporter Jay Glazer, Pittsburgh has opted not to exercise that clause. Glazer reported on "Fox NFL Kickoff" that the organization “decided not to void the guarantees” and intends to maintain its long-term commitment to Metcalf.

What will be the Packers' QB situation next week vs the Vikings? Also, the Steelers will not take away DK Metcalf's guarantees following the fan altercation in Detroit, and the latest on Maxx Crosby's frustration with the Raiders. @JayGlazer has the latest: pic.twitter.com/rdcpyeOAv8
— FOX Sports: NFL (@NFLonFOX) December 28, 2025

The decision represents meaningful good news for Metcalf. By preserving his guarantees, the Steelers signal they continue to view him as a core part of their long-term plans rather than a player whose future is in jeopardy over a single incident. It also protects Metcalf from a potentially massive financial loss as he serves his suspension and prepares to return to the field.

Metcalf’s suspension and the related contract dispute have added dramatic subplots to Pittsburgh’s playoff push. Metcalf leads the team in receiving yards (850), touchdown receptions (six) and targets (99) this season, and the Steelers will need to overcome that void against the Browns on Sunday. A win guarantees the division title for the Steelers, while a loss means a tricky test against the Baltimore Ravens in Week 18 will determine their playoff fate.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: