A new development has emerged in the hig-profile incident involving former Seattle Seahawks wide receiver DK Metcalf and Detroit Lions fan Ryan Kennedy, as the fallout continues amid NFL disciplinary action.

Kennedy, the spectator seen in the widely circulated confrontation with Metcalf at Ford Field, appeared at a press conference on Friday, December 26, alongside legal representation. During the event, he categorically rejected claims that he used racist or hateful language during the exchange that later went viral online.

Kennedy stated that he has never directed racial slurs or hate speech at any player and urged Metcalf — whose given name is DeKaylin — to publicly confirm that no such language was used. His remarks were shared by reporters covering the event, including The Athletic’s Mike DeFabo.

“I did not use racial slurs or hateful language at the game — not then, not ever,” Kennedy said. “I’ve been a Lions season ticket holder for 15 years, and that’s never been who I am. DeKaylin, if you’re seeing this, I’m just asking you to say that publicly.”

Kennedy has maintained this position consistently, denying the use of any racial or hate-based terms and asserting that the confrontation escalated for reasons unrelated to language.

His legal team described the press conference as a response to the serious personal consequences Kennedy claims he has faced since the incident, including threats to his safety and family. They also disputed what they say has been inaccurately repeated as fact across social media and online reports.

During the press event, Kennedy’s attorneys acknowledged that a complaint involving him was filed with the NFL or the Lions organization in September 2024. However, they said they were unable to confirm who made the report or provide further details, according to CBS reporter Rachel Hoymayer.

Requests for clarification have reportedly been sent to the NFL, the Lions, and the Seahawks.
Meanwhile, Metcalf’s discipline from the league has already been finalized. The NFL suspended him for two games without pay for violating league conduct policies related to physical engagement with fans.

That suspension was upheld following an appeal. According to reports from ESPN and CBS Sports, the punishment results in Metcalf losing more than $555,000 in salary and may also trigger the loss of up to $45 million in future guaranteed money, based on contract language.

While the Lions have indicated that Kennedy will not face team-imposed penalties, the NFL has confirmed that its review of the fan’s conduct remains ongoing. ESPN reported that information presented during Metcalf’s appeal hearing contributed to the league’s decision to continue evaluating the matter.

The league has emphasized that its punishment of Metcalf was based strictly on conduct, not on what may or may not have been said.

NFL rules prohibit players from entering the stands or initiating physical contact with spectators under any circumstances.
Still, the unresolved dispute over the alleged language remains significant.

NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero previously reported that a source close to Metcalf claimed offensive remarks were directed at the receiver and that Metcalf had flagged the same fan to team security during an earlier visit to Detroit.
From a football standpoint, the timing of the suspension is costly for Pittsburgh.

Metcalf is set to miss key matchups against the Cleveland Browns and Baltimore Ravens in Weeks 17 and 18 of the season.
Beyond the field, Kennedy’s press conference appears aimed at formally documenting his denial and pressuring Metcalf to clarify his position publicly.

Whether the NFL’s continued review leads to further action — or whether the situation escalates into legal proceedings — remains the next critical chapter in a controversy that has already resulted in lost games and potentially significant financial consequences.