A Detroit Lions fan at the center of a viral on-field incident involving Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver DK Metcalf has spoken publicly in an effort to address allegations and stop what he describes as escalating harassment toward his family.

On Friday, Ryan Kennedy — the Lions fan involved in the altercation during the Lions-Steelers matchup — held a press conference to clarify what happened and strongly deny claims that he used racist language toward Metcalf. Kennedy said those accusations have led to threats against him and his family in the days following the incident.

The confrontation, which was caught on video and circulated widely on social media, occurred near the stands when Metcalf appeared to swing toward Kennedy, sparking national attention and debate.

Kennedy said rumors suggesting he used racial slurs are false and deeply upsetting.

“It is really hard to get me upset,” Kennedy said. “But there are two things — animal abuse and racism — that make me angry immediately. I want to be crystal clear: I did not use any racial slurs or hate speech at the game. Not ever.”

Kennedy added that he has been a Detroit Lions season-ticket holder for 15 years and insists he has never engaged in that type of behavior.

During the press conference, Kennedy made a direct public appeal to Metcalf, whose legal name is DeKaylin Metcalf, asking him to clarify what was — and was not — said during the exchange.

“DeKaylin, if you’re watching this, if you could just say that no racial language was used, please,” Kennedy said. “My family is getting threats, and it’s not okay. I know you wouldn’t want that to happen.”

Kennedy also said he holds no ill will toward Metcalf and emphasized that his only goal is to protect his family and bring the controversy to an end.

“Even if you did think that, I forgive you,” Kennedy added. “That’s all I’ve got. Go Lions.”

As of now, the NFL has not released an additional statement regarding the incident or Kennedy’s remarks. The league previously acknowledged awareness of the altercation, but no further disciplinary action has been announced.

Kennedy said he hopes speaking publicly will help clear his name and allow all parties involved to move forward.