An on-field confrontation between Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver DK Metcalf and a Detroit Lions fan during Sunday’s game at Ford Field has drawn widespread attention after video showed Metcalf grabbing and shoving a spectator seated in the front row.
The incident quickly spread on social media, sparking allegations that the fan used racial slurs, claims that are now being disputed.
Ryan Kennedy, the Lions fan involved in the altercation, has denied using any racial or hate-based language during the exchange, according to a statement released Monday by a Michigan law firm. Kennedy “categorically denies using the ‘N-word,’ the ‘C-word’ or any racial, misogynistic, or hate-based language,” the statement from Head Murphy Law Firm attorneys Sean Head and Sean Murphy said, calling the allegations “completely false.” The lawyers added that Kennedy has since faced harassment, threats, and messages advocating violence.
The NFL suspended Metcalf for two games without pay for physically confronting the Detroit Lions fan, according to reporter Tom Pelissero. Metcalf, who had previously reported the same fan to security last season, is expected to appeal the suspension.
What Happened Between DK Metcalf and Ryan Kennedy?
The altercation occurred at Ford Field, where Kennedy was seated in the front row wearing a blue wig and leaning over the railing. CBS footage showed Metcalf approaching the fan after an exchange of words, grabbing Kennedy by the shirt collar and then forcefully releasing him, shoving him backward. Kennedy was not removed from the game, according to the Lions.
Kennedy told the Detroit Free Press that he called Metcalf by his full name, DeKaylin Zecharius Metcalf, which he says prompted the wide receiver’s reaction. “I called him that, and then he grabbed me and ripped my shirt,” Kennedy said, adding that he was shaken by the attention but focused on the Lions winning.
Former NFL wide receiver Chad Johnson said on his Nightcap podcast that he had been told Kennedy used racial slurs and an inflammatory remark about Metcalf’s mother, which he said caused Metcalf to react. Johnson added that while he understood the reaction, players are still expected to control themselves.
Metcalf has previously reported Kennedy to Seattle Seahawks team security, a source confirmed to ESPN, during games played in Detroit in 2022, 2023, and 2024 when Metcalf was with Seattle. Asked about the incident after the game, Steelers coach Mike Tomlin said he was aware of it but declined to comment.
CBS sideline reporter Tracy Wolfson said on the broadcast that Metcalf approached the fan after something was said to him and that no Steelers players intervened.