Dec 21, 2025; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Detroit Lions cornerback Rock Ya-Sin (23) tackles Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver DK Metcalf (4) during the fourth quarter at Ford Field. Mandatory Credit: Lon Horwedel-Imagn Images

DK Metcalf’s Two-Game Ticket: Punching Out In Detroit

Originally posted on Stadium Rant | By Levi Omeke | Last updated Dec 23, 2025 11:06 AM ET

The NFL suspended Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver D.K. Metcalf two games for the swipe he took at Lions fan Ryan Kennedy during Sunday’s game against the Detroit Lions. Metcalf still can appeal, but he now is slated to miss the Steelers’ upcoming potential game vs. the Cleveland Browns.

Metcalf will miss the next two Steelers games without pay, leaving a huge gap in their offense. This same fan was reportedly flagged by him back in 2024 when he was with the Seattle Seahawks.

Legal Nightmare Begins

Kennedy issued a statement through his attorney, denying accusations that he used racial slurs or misogynistic language. This is a bad look on Metcalf.

Footage obtained by Preme Sports appears to support his claim. In the video, Kennedy is only heard saying Metcalf’s full name, seemingly trying to get him to sign a jersey, which he has consistently stated.

Fans sitting nearby corroborate the same account. At no point are slurs or insults toward Metcalf’s mother audible in the clip.

This is very different from what was reported on Nightcap, where Chad Johnson said Metcalf claimed the fan used a racial slur and made an offensive comment about his mother, which supposedly caused the reaction. Following being attacked and facing serious public accusations, Kennedy has hired a lawyer and is said to be looking into taking legal action.

End Of My DK Metcalf Rant

Dec 15, 2025; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver DK Metcalf (4) runs with the ball after a catch in the third quarter against the Miami Dolphins at Acrisure Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images

Athletes like Metcalf are role models and public figures. As such, there is often an expectation that they are held to higher standards.

Missing games against the Browns and possibly more impact the team’s playoff hunt. Additionally, the message it sends in the locker room could affect team performance, as one moment of lost control can influence real outcomes.

This article first appeared on Stadium Rant and was syndicated with permission.

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