Nov 30, 2025; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver DK Metcalf (4) runs against the Buffalo Bills during the first half at Acrisure Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Barry Reeger-Imagn Images Barry Reeger-Imagn Images

Steelers' DK Metcalf Punches Lions Fan During Game

Originally posted on Pittsburgh Steelers on SI
By Jack Markowski | Last updated Dec 21, 2025 5:43 PM ET

As the first half was coming to a close, wide receiver DK Metcalf had a fiery interaction with a Detroit Lions fan behind the Pittsburgh Steelers' sideline.

During a commercial break as the Lions drove into Pittsburgh territory, the CBS broadcast of the game showed footage of Metcalf pulling the fan down by his wig, which was dyed in Lions blue, and then throwing a punch in his direction before turning away.

DK Metcalf with a fan: pic.twitter.com/iwD6BvzSOQ
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) December 21, 2025

The fan had reportedly been holding up a Steelers jersey, per the CBS broadcast, and then said something to Metcalf, which may have caused the interaction to turn physical in a hurry.

Potential NFL Investigation

It's unclear what either party said at the moment, but the NFL will surely investigate the matter, and Metcalf could face potential discipline depending on the outcome.

CBS' rules analyst Gene Steratore, who was once an NFL official, stated that because the crew was not watching Metcalf at the time of the situation, that he was not penalized in the moment.

Steratore did add that the league's compliance department has been notified of what occurred.

Metcalf was back on the field with the rest of the Steelers' offense on the ensuing drive.

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