Total Pro Sports
The Detroit Lions fan who got punched by DK Metcalf during Sunday’s game at Ford Field has responded to serious accusations regarding the incident with the Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver.
For those who didn’t see it, CBS Sports’ cameras showed DK Metcalf exchanging words with the Lions fan during the second quarter. Apparently upset with something said by the fan, Metcalf retaliated by punching him in the face before walking away.
Metcalf was fortunate that the NFL referees didn’t witness the incident as it unfolded. Otherwise, he would have certainly been ejected from the game, which ended in a 29-24 Pittsburgh win. But the Pro Bowl wideout is sure to get suspended following his actions.
The Lions fan has since been identified as Ryan Kennedy. According to Kennedy, DK Metcalf was angry when he addressed the star wide receiver by his full name, which is DeKaylin Zecharius Metcalf.
On the latest episode of the “Nightcap” podcast (via ESPN’s Brooke Pryor), former NFL wide receiver Chad “Ochocinco” Johnson relayed information from sources. Johnson claims that Kennedy called Metcalf the “N-Word” and referred to his mother as the “C-word.”
Pryor received a statement from Kennedy’s attorney, who said the allegations are “completely false.” You can view the full statement below:
Ryan Kennedy, the fan involved in the DK Metcalf altercation Sunday, has issued a statement through an attorney “categorically denying using the “N-word,” the “C-word,” or any racial, misogynistic, or hate-based slur during the incident.
“These allegations are completely false.” pic.twitter.com/pQUbBYa0ww
— Brooke Pryor (@bepryor) December 22, 2025
The Steelers acquired Metcalf from the Seattle Seahawks in an offseason blockbuster trade. They only had to give up a 2025 second-round pick for the standout receiver. He then signed a four-year extension worth a whopping $132 million.
Metcalf has had an up-and-down first season in Pittsburgh, though. He needs 150 yards over his final two games to return to the 1,000-yard mark for the first time since 2023. He’s averaging 56.7 yards per game, Metcalf’s lowest since his rookie year.
Now, Metcalf is sure to get suspended at least one game following this incident with the Lions fan. The Steelers are one win away from the AFC North division crown. They’ll need Metcalf to refocus if they’re to go on a deep playoff run.
