Lions fan involved in DK Metcalf altercation denies using foul language

Detroit Lions fan rejects claim he used offensive language during confrontation

The altercation unfolded late in the second quarter of Pittsburgh's 29-24 victory. Kennedy, wearing a blue wig and holding a Steelers jersey, was seated in the front row when Metcalf approached the stands.

Cameras captured Metcalf grabbing Kennedy's shirt and then throwing a punch at him. Kennedy told the Detroit Free Press he called Metcalf by his full legal name, DeKaylin Zecharius Metcalf, which sparked the receiver's reaction.

Former NFL WR Chad Johnson, however, claimed he heard that Kennedy used racially charged language and made a derogatory comment about Metcalf's mother, a claim which Kennedy rejected at his Friday press conference.

"It is really hard to get me upset, but there's two things, animal abuse and racism, like I get hot right away," Kennedy said. "I want to be crystal clear about one thing. I didn't use any racial slurs. No hate speech. None of that stuff at the game. Actually, never. 15-year season ticket holder for the Lions, I've never done that at all. So to DeKaylin, if you're watching this, man, just if you could just say that, please."

The NFL suspended Metcalf for two games without pay, citing league policy prohibiting players from initiating physical contact with fans. The suspension reportedly costs him over $555K in forfeited salary and voids $45M in guaranteed money.

The league initially indicated Kennedy would face no discipline, but that changed after Metcalf's appeal hearing. The NFL now says the matter regarding Kennedy's conduct remains under review.