The NFL has officially ruled on the controversial altercation involving Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver DK Metcalf and a Detroit Lions fan, confirming a two-game suspension for Metcalf while taking no disciplinary action against the fan involved.

According to NFL Network insider Tom Pelissero, both the league and the Detroit Lions determined that the fan did not violate the NFL Fan Code of Conduct, and therefore will not face a ban or any additional punishment.

“The NFL and the Lions will not take action against the fan involved in the altercation with Steelers WR DK Metcalf because there was no violation of the fan code of conduct,” Pelissero reported.

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DK Metcalf Suspension Stands After Appeal Denied

Metcalf’s appeal was denied on Monday, meaning the star receiver will miss the final two games of the regular season following the Steelers’ dramatic 29–24 win over the Lions at Ford Field.

Video from the incident shows Metcalf approaching a fan wearing a blue wig, grabbing it, and swiping it away during a heated exchange in the stands. The fan was later identified by the Detroit Free Press as Ryan Kennedy.

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Conflicting Accounts Over What Was Said

Kennedy claims the situation escalated after he referred to Metcalf by his full “government name.” Metcalf, however, told league officials the incident was part of an ongoing issue between the two dating back to his time with the Seattle Seahawks, including a prior report during a 2024 Seahawks–Lions game.

According to a source close to Metcalf, the receiver alleged that Kennedy used a racial slur and made a derogatory comment about his mother. Kennedy’s attorney strongly denied those claims.

“Ryan Kennedy categorically denies using any racial, misogynistic, or hate-based slur during the incident,” the attorney said in a statement via ESPN.

Additional fan-shot video surfaced on Monday, and based on the available audio, the NFL ultimately sided with the fan.

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Financial Impact of DK Metcalf’s Suspension

The suspension could be costly for Metcalf. Pelissero reports that he will forfeit over $500,000 in salary, and the discipline technically allows the Steelers to void up to $45 million in future guarantees under his four-year, $132 million contract.

Those guarantees include:

$25 million fully guaranteed in 2026

$20 million injury guarantee in 2027

However, the Steelers have reaffirmed their commitment to Metcalf beyond the 2025 season and are not expected to exercise that option.

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When Can DK Metcalf Return?

Metcalf will be eligible to return for a potential wild-card playoff game if Pittsburgh reaches the postseason. The Steelers currently hold a two-game lead over the Baltimore Ravens in the AFC North and can clinch the division with one win or one Ravens loss over the final two weeks.