Prior to the Pittsburgh Steelers’ 13-6 loss to Shedeur Sanders and Cleveland on Sunday, Mike Tomlin’s squad knew it would have to play the game without their top wide receiver, DK Metcalf. The star wideout’s suspension for striking Detroit Lions fan Ryan Kennedy during last Sunday’s road win, causes him to miss the last two games of the season.
DK Metcalf’s Absence Felt In Playoff-Damaging Steelers Loss To Cleveland Browns
His absence was heavily felt by Aaron Rodgers and a Steelers offense that failed to get anything going. Rodgers mustered just 168 yards passing. The relentless Browns pass rush led by Myles Garrett as he chases the all-time sack record, gave the wily veteran signal-caller fits all day.Pittsburgh needed a playmaker, but Metcalf was not in uniform. Now they face a do-or-die game against the Baltimore Ravens on Jan. 4 for a playoff berth.
Detroit Lions Fan Vehemently Denies Using Racial Slurs Against Steelers WR DK Metcalf
While Metcalf has been adamant that Kennedy used racial slurs and hate speech when addressing him last week, Kennedy has vehemently denied it. On Friday the 15-year Lions season ticket holder held a press conference alongside his legal team to discuss the matter, even mentioning how his family has received death threats in the aftermath of Metcalf’s strong claims about the incident.
Kennedy Tells His Side
During Kennedy’s presser the Lions superfan had plenty to say and he even asked told Metcalf he forgives him for what he said and did.
“It is really hard to get me upset, but there’s two things — animal abuse, racism — like I get hot, right away. Like, I can feel my face gets all warm. So, I guess I want to be crystal clear about one thing: I didn’t use any racial slurs, no hate speech, none of that stuff at the game,” Kennedy said.
“Actually, never. A 15-year season-ticket holder for the Lions, and I’ve never done that at all,” he insisted.
“DeKaylin, if you’re watching this, man, just, if you could just say that, please,” Kennedy pleaded. “My family is getting threats and stuff. It’s not cool. So, whether you said that or not, I’m sure you didn’t want that to happen to the family, even if you did. Like, I forgive you, man. That’s all I got. Go Lions.”
Kennedy Is No Stranger To Controversy
Adding another layer to the back-and-forth between Metcalf and Kennedy, is the Lions superfan isn’t far removed from another incident. According to reports, Kennedy was reported to the NFL or Detroit Lions in September 2024 for fan misconduct, and while the details of who reported him and why isn’t available, it’s still out there that he was reprimanded in some way.
So in that case, Metcalf’s story may or may not carry some validity. But as of now no one will ever know what was said between the two. Only they know.
Metcalf Will Miss Steelers’ Chance To Clinch Division And Playoff Spot: Suspension Looms Large
As a result of the incident Metcalf, the Steelers leading receiver this season, will miss the final game of the regular season against Baltimore, hoping the Steelers can get the win it needs to win the division and host a home playoff game.
Metcalf’s decision proves to be costly.
