Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images

Steelers HC Shares DK Metcalf Update After Suspension

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Ayomide Adeduyite | Last updated Jan 6, 2026 2:16 PM ET

The Pittsburgh Steelers took the harder route to secure the AFC North and clinch a playoff berth, enduring ups and downs before pulling out a dramatic 26-24 win over the Baltimore Ravens in Week 18.

Aaron Rodgers threw a go‑ahead 26‑yard touchdown to Calvin Austin III with 55 seconds remaining, and a missed Ravens field goal as time expired sealed the victory, giving Pittsburgh its first division title in five years and setting the stage for wild card weekend.

Now the Steelers will host the Houston Texans (12-5) on Monday night, and they received a big boost on offense with DK Metcalf returning from a two‑game suspension.

Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Dk Metcalf (4).Brian Fluharty-Imagn Images

Metcalf’s absence was felt during critical late‑season games, particularly in a low‑scoring loss to the Cleveland Browns, and his 850 receiving yards and six touchdowns made him one of Pittsburgh’s most reliable offensive weapons this season.

Facing the NFL’s No. 1 defense this postseason, having Metcalf back gives the Steelers a much‑needed vertical threat and a trusted target for Rodgers under the bright lights.

Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin addressed Metcalf’s status and mindset before the Texans game.

“I think he's in a great place. He's happy to be back. He's happy to be in the tournament. Ready to go to work,” Tomlin said via ESPN’s Brooke Pryor.

Metcalf’s suspension stemmed from an altercation with a fan during Pittsburgh’s Week 16 game against the Detroit Lions. He reached over the railing and attempted to strike a spectator; the NFL subsequently suspended him for two games, and his appeal was denied.

Metcalf declined to comment on the incident when addressing the media on Monday, choosing instead to focus solely on preparation and his eagerness to contribute in the playoffs.

DK Metcalf basically says ‘no comment’ five times about the situation in Detroit. Was later asked if he had any ‘feelings of responsibility’ while the offense struggled at times the last two weeks.

Here’s the full sequence of those questions: pic.twitter.com/qyTw6UGa2U
— Nick Farabaugh (@FarabaughFB) January 5, 2026

This season, Metcalf has been Rodgers’ most reliable wide receiver, leading the group in receptions (59), yards (850) and touchdowns (6).

Pittsburgh’s defense has also been a strength at times this season, but the Steelers will need every bit of offensive firepower they can get if they hope to advance beyond the wild card round.

The matchup against the Houston Texans kicks off Monday at 8:15 p.m. ET and will be televised on ABC and ESPN.

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

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