Steelers’ DK Metcalf Still Under Investigation for December Incident at Ford Field
The fallout from the December altercation between Steelers wide receiver DK Metcalf and a Detroit Lions fan continues to unfold, with the Detroit Police Department still actively investigating the incident, according to a report.
The Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office confirmed that police submitted a warrant request last month related to the case, but it remains under review. At this point, no charges have been filed, and it's still unclear who the subject of the warrant request is.
The incident in question took place during the first half of the Steelers’ Dec. 21 matchup against the Lions at Ford Field. Metcalf was seen shoving a Lions fan, Ryan Kennedy, after what was reportedly a prolonged exchange.
According to Kennedy, Metcalf became upset after he used the wide receiver’s full name while heckling him. However, other reports suggest the situation may have been more serious.
While Metcalf hasn’t publicly addressed the incident, multiple outlets reported that Kennedy allegedly used a racial slur and insulted Metcalf’s mother-claims Kennedy has firmly denied. In response, Kennedy has filed a $100 million civil lawsuit against Metcalf, the Steelers organization, Ford Field, and several media outlets, alleging assault and defamation.
Kennedy’s attorney, Jon Marko, acknowledged the ongoing police investigation during a press conference held Wednesday. Former Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin had previously noted that Metcalf could face legal consequences stemming from the confrontation.
As for league discipline, the NFL came down swiftly. Metcalf was suspended for the final two games of the regular season, a punishment that cost him more than $550,000 in salary.
He appealed the suspension directly to NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell, but the appeal was denied. Despite the incident and the suspension, the Steelers organization chose not to void Metcalf’s future guaranteed salary-a move they were contractually permitted to make.
This situation remains fluid, with legal proceedings still in motion and the league already having made its disciplinary stance clear. What’s next will likely hinge on the outcome of the prosecutor’s review and any potential legal action that follows.