Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver DK Metcalf appeared to punch a fan during his team’s 29-24 NFL win over the Detroit Lions. The incident happened in the second quarter at Ford Field and was caught on television.
Footage showed Metcalf walking toward a Lions fan who was leaning over the front railing of the stands. Metcalf appeared to grab the fan’s blue wig before swinging his right fist. CBS sideline reporter Tracy Wolfson said the fan had shouted something at Metcalf, which seemed to trigger the reaction.
The fan, later identified as Ryan Kennedy, said he had called Metcalf by his full name. He claimed Metcalf grabbed him and tore his shirt, saying he was shocked by what happened but mainly wanted the Lions to win.
Because officials did not see the incident, Metcalf stayed in the game and finished with four catches for 42 yards as the Steelers secured their third straight victory. However, the NFL is reviewing the incident, and Metcalf could still face punishment. Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin said he was aware of the situation but had not yet seen the footage or spoken to Metcalf.
