Before the NFL could fully embrace its Week 17 schedule, it had to sort out all the chaos regarding Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver DK Metcalf and Detroit Lions fan Ryan Kennedy.
During this past weekend’s Steelers-Lions game, Metcalf grabbed Kennedy by his collar at Ford Field. The NFL issued a two-game suspension to Metcalf for “conduct detrimental to the NFL for initiating a physical confrontation with a fan.”
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Former NFL star Chad Johnson said Metcalf reacted so aggressively because Kennedy used a racial slur. He claims the fan also made a comment about Metcalf’s mother.
“I got word — obviously, I’m not condoning putting your hands on a fan or punching a fan — but he did call him a racial slur. He called him the N-word and he did call his mom a c—. I think, with those words being exchanged and the fan saying that, I think that’s where the action occurred,” Johnson said. “That’s a bad combination [of words] … and it caused DK to react. I’m sure he will have to deal with some type of discipline. You know how the NFL is. No matter what’s said, they want you to be able to control yourself in that situation, but I understand.”
Kennedy’s legal team quickly responded to these allegations, calling them “completely false.”
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While it’s unclear what went down behind the scenes, the NFL has reportedly decided it won’t take action against Kennedy.
According to NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero, the league found “no violation of the fan code of conduct.”
Dec 21, 2025; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Detroit Lions cornerback Rock Ya-Sin (23) tackles Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver DK Metcalf (4) during the fourth quarter at Ford Field. Mandatory Credit: Lon Horwedel-Imagn ImagesLon Horwedel-Imagn Images
Setting a dangerous precedent.
By refusing to punish Kennedy, the NFL has potentially empowered some egotistical fans to be disruptive at games.
“It’s kinda crazy that there’s now precedent to go to an NFL stadium with the intent to start an altercation and that be considered within the realms of normal fan conduct,” one person said.
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“Hey fans! Just make sure no one can hear you, and you can cause any issue you want,” a second person commented.
“So basically its okay to heckle athletes and the players must take it or they will be suspended? I know the NFL is joking right now,” a fan wrote on X.
“Setting the precedent that grown men can do whatever they want at sporting events,” another fan replied.
The NFL announced Tuesday night that Metcalf’s two-game suspension has been upheld. As a result, the Steelers have to make the playoffs in order for fans to see him again this season.
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Metcalf’s suspension will cost him $555,556 since he’ll forfeit his checks for Weeks 17 and 18. Additionally, $45 million worth of guarantees in his contract have been voided.
We can’t imagine Metcalf is a happy camper at the moment.
This story was originally published by The Spun on Dec 24, 2025, where it first appeared in the NFL section. Add The Spun as a Preferred Source by clicking here.