The latest chapter in the DK Metcalf–Ryan Kennedy saga unfolded Sunday.
FOX Sports’ Jay Glazer reported before kickoff that the Pittsburgh Steelers receiver filed a formal security complaint about Kennedy in September 2024, when Metcalf was still with the Seattle Seahawks.
“I actually have the security communication between the Detroit Lions and Seattle Seahawks security from a game last year,” Glazer said. “DK Metcalf … complained about that exact same fan to security. He asked that the fan be removed over very derogatory comments. I’m not going to repeat what the comments are on here.
“In this, it says, when we investigated during the game the individuals around corroborated that the fan was being out of line and had indeed said these derogatory statements. They even asked us to remove (Kennedy).”
GettyFormer Seattle Seahawks receiver DK Metcalf filed a formal complaint against fan Ryan Kennedy during a Detroit Lions game in 2024.
Despite that history, the NFL ruled that Metcalf will serve a two-game suspension for his altercation with Kennedy. The league and the Lions also confirmed that Kennedy will face no additional punishment, such as a ban from attending games. Metcalf’s appeal was denied.
Metcalf Accused Kennedy of Using Racial Slurs
Video from the incident shows Metcalf approaching a fan wearing a blue wig, grabbing it and swiping it toward him. Kennedy has claimed Metcalf became upset after being called by his full “government name.” Metcalf, however, offered a different account, saying Kennedy directed a racial slur at him and used a derogatory term for his mother, according to reporting from the NFL Network.
Kennedy’s attorney disputed that version of events in a statement released to ESPN.
“Ryan Kennedy categorically denies using the ‘N-word,’ the ‘C-word,’ or any racial, misogynistic, or hate-based slur during the incident that occurred on December 21, 2025, at Ford Field during the Pittsburgh Steelers-Detroit Lions game,” Kennedy’s attorney said.
Additional video surfaced Monday from a fan’s camera in the stands, and based on the available audio, no slur is clearly heard. Ultimately, the NFL sided with the fan.
Kennedy Held a Bizarre News Conference on Friday
The situation didn’t end there. Kennedy held a news conference Friday alongside his attorneys, calling on Metcalf to publicly retract any claims of racism.
“I didn’t use any racial slurs, no hate speech… none of that stuff at the game. Actually never… So to DeKaylin, if you’re watching this man, just if you could just say that please,” Kennedy said.
Kennedy’s attorneys framed the event as a response to what they described as “serious consequences,” including threats to Kennedy’s safety, while disputing what has been “repeated as fact” online.
Meanwhile, the Steelers felt Metcalf’s absence in Week 17 against the Cleveland Browns. Pittsburgh’s offense struggled to find a rhythm, and Aaron Rodgers appeared desperate for a reliable target in the fourth quarter. The Steelers fell 13-6 at Huntington Bank Stadium, opening the door for a pivotal showdown for the AFC North with the Baltimore Ravens in Week 18.
Metcalf has recorded 59 receptions for 850 yards and six touchdowns in 15 games this season. Pittsburgh’s playoff hopes are now in jeopardy — and there is nothing Metcalf can do to change that.
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