Tag: DK Metcalf

Suspension could cost Steelers’ DK Metcalf more than $45M

Posted on | by Field Level Media

DK Metcalf’s two-game suspension for an altercation with a fan could void $45 million in the Steelers receiver’s contract, according to multiple reports.

Metcalf, 28, signed a four-year, $132 million deal with Pittsburgh in March after being acquired from the Seattle Seahawks.

The contract includes guaranteed money in 2026 ($25 million) and 2027 ($20 million) that will be “null and void” if he fails “to practice or play with the Club for any reason,” according to CBS Sports.

Metcalf is also forfeiting $555,556 in salary for missing Pittsburgh’s final two regular-season games ($277,778 per game) after being suspended for conduct detrimental to the NFL for initiating contact with a fan at Detroit’s Ford Field on Sunday.

Metcalf appealed the suspension, but it was upheld on Tuesday by an appeals officer jointly appointed by the NFL and the NFL Players Association.

With the Steelers (9-6) trying to hold off the Baltimore Ravens (7-8) to win the AFC North, Metcalf will miss Sunday’s contest at Cleveland and the Week 18 finale at home against Baltimore.

During the Steelers’ 29-24 win over the Lions, Metcalf walked behind Pittsburgh’s sideline toward a Lions fan leaning over the front row. Metcalf raised his right hand to grab the fan, who was wearing a blue wig, and then appeared to try to punch the man as he leaned back.

Metcalf was not penalized during the game, but multiple cameras caught the interaction and ultimately led to his suspension on Monday.

A two-time Pro Bowl selection, Metcalf leads the Steelers in receiving yards (850), touchdown receptions (six) and targets (99). He ranks second on the team with 59 catches.

–Field Level Media

NFL looks into alleged history; fan denies sparking Metcalf strike with slur

Posted on | by Field Level Media

A fan with a reported history of inciting reactions from DK Metcalf at Ford Field denied through an attorney he used a racial slur that prompted the Pittsburgh Steelers receiver to grab and rip his shirt during Sunday’s game in Detroit.

The NFL is investigating what prompted Metcalf to walk from the Steelers’ bench to the raised seating area and grab Ryan Kennedy before appearing to take a swipe at the fan, who denied through Head Murphy Law Firm on Monday that he used inflammatory language or racial slurs.

“These allegations are completely false,” according to Sean Head and Sean Murphy of Head Murphy Law Firm, who issued a statement Monday.

Multiple outlets reported there is an alleged history with Metcalf and Kennedy, who played at Ford Field while with the Seahawks in 2022, 2023 and 2024. NFL Network and ESPN cited sources in noting Metcalf turned Kennedy in to Seattle’s team security in the past.

But a video from a fan seated to Kennedy’s left facing the field seems to corroborate parts of the fan’s account of the incident, claiming in an interview with the Free Press that he baited the receiver by calling him by his legal name — DeKaylin Zecharius Metcalf — and not the racial slurs others claimed to hear.

Lions security did not remove Kennedy from the game.

“Ryan Kennedy categorically denies using the ‘N-word,’ the ‘C-word,’ or any racial, misogynistic, or hate-based slur,” Head Murphy’s statement said.

Former NFL wide receiver Chad Johnson said on the “Nightcap” podcast on Sunday night that he was told a combination of racial or inflammatory terms caused Metcalf to react.

“I got word — obviously, I’m not condoning putting your hands on a fan or punching a fan — but he did call him a racial slur,” Johnson said. “He called him the N-word and he did call his mom a c–t. I think, with those words being exchanged and the fan saying that, I think that’s where the action occurred. That’s a bad combination … and it caused DK to react. I’m sure he will have to deal with some type of discipline. You know how the NFL is. No matter what’s said, they want you to be able to control yourself in that situation, but I understand.”

–Field Level Media

Steelers WR DK Metcalf involved in altercation with fan

Posted on | by Field Level Media

Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver DK Metcalf appeared to take a swipe at a fan in the front row at Ford Field during the second quarter of Sunday’s 29-24 win over the Detroit Lions.

Metcalf was spotted talking to the fan, who was sporting a blue wig and hanging over the first-row railing. The two-time Pro Bowl wide receiver grabbed the man by his shirt to move him closer before throwing a right hand toward the fan’s face.

Metcalf did not appear to make much contact with the fan, who threw his hands up in a defensive posture. Metcalf exited the locker room without taking questions from the media.

The Detroit Free Press spoke to the fan, who identified himself as Ryan Kennedy from Pinckney, Mich. He said he called the wideout by his full name: DeKaylin Zecharius Metcalf.

“I called him that, and then he grabbed me and ripped my shirt,” Kennedy told the newspaper. “I’m a little shocked. Like everyone’s talking to me. I’m a little rattled, but I just want the Lions to win, baby.”

Officials did not see the incident with the fan and therefore did not issue a flag on Metcalf. He was allowed to continue playing and finished the game with four catches for 42 yards.

The fan was not removed from the game, the Lions told the Detroit Free Press.

The NFL is expected to review the incident for potential discipline, however.

Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin told reporters after the game that he did not see the incident.

“I heard about it but I haven’t seen it,” Tomlin said. “I haven’t had the opportunity to talk to DK, and so I have no comment.”

Metcalf, 28, has 59 catches for 850 yards and six touchdowns in 15 games during his first season with the Steelers. He also has two carries for 12 yards and a score.

A second-round pick of Seattle in the 2019 NFL Draft, Metcalf has 497 catches for 7,174 yards and 54 touchdowns in 112 career games with the Seahawks and Steelers.

–Field Level Media

Mike Tomlin: Steelers WR DK Metcalf on track for MNF

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Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver DK Metcalf is expected to play Monday night after spending Sunday night in Baltimore due to stomach pains.

Steelers coach Mike Tomlin told reporters Tuesday that Metcalf is “moving in the right direction” toward suiting up for the crucial Week 15 matchup against the visiting Miami Dolphins (6-7).

Metcalf, who will turn 28 on Sunday, rejoined the team in Pittsburgh on Monday after going to a Baltimore hospital and staying in a hotel overnight following the Steelers’ 27-22 win over the Ravens.

“I don’t think it’s going to jeopardize his availability at all, but it certainly may jeopardize his availability at the early portions of the week from a practice standpoint,” Tomlin said about Metcalf’s hospital stay. “Thankfully he’s fine. I’m appreciative of our medical staff and how quickly they acted and making sure that he was safe and taking care of him postgame.”

Tomlin cited an in-game hit that caused Metcalf to begin experiencing stomach pains, which worsened to the point the veteran receiver was removed from the team plane in Baltimore by medical personnel.

“He got hit in the abdomen or stomach in-game,” Tomlin said. “I think they gave him some basic over-the-counter remedies in-game like Pepto or something like that and it got probably progressively worse after the game, so I’m appreciative of our medical experts. We just exercised an abundance of caution. We didn’t want to get him in the air without having a complete understanding about what he was dealing with, and they did a good job of that.”

A seven-year veteran in his first season with Pittsburgh (7-6), Metcalf posted a season-high 148 yards on seven receptions Sunday. In 13 games this season, he has 52 receptions for 753 yards and five touchdowns along with two rushes for 12 yards and a score. A second-round pick of the Seattle Seahawks in the 2019 draft, Metcalf has tallied 490 catches for 7,077 yards and 53 scores.

In other Steelers injury news, offensive tackle Andrus Peat, linebacker Malik Harrison and tight end Darnell Washington are in concussion protocol. Tomlin said defensive lineman Keeanu Benton (ankle) and cornerback James Pierre (calf) might be limited in practice after suffering injuries Sunday.

Safety Kyle Dugger, who missed Sunday’s game with a hand injury, might suit up Monday, Tomlin said. Defensive tackle Derrick Harmon (knee), a first-round pick in 2025, has missed the last two games, and his status for Monday is up in the air.

The banged-up Steelers were given Wednesday off by Tomlin and will practice Thursday.

–Field Level Media

Steelers WR DK Metcalf (stomach pain) stayed in Baltimore Sunday night

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Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver DK Metcalf spent the night in Baltimore after experiencing stomach pains after Sunday’s 27-22 win over the Ravens, the team announced.

“DK Metcalf was experiencing stomach pains once the team boarded the plane in Baltimore Sunday evening. The Steelers’ medical team removed him from the plane out of an abundance of caution to seek further evaluations at a nearby hospital. He remained in Baltimore overnight and is scheduled to return to Pittsburgh today,” the team statement said.

NFL Network reported that Metcalf, 27, took a hard hit during the game and that the team wanted to rule out any internal injuries.

Despite the hit, Metcalf set season highs with seven catches and 148 yards to raise his tallies to 52 catches for 753 yards and five touchdowns in his first season in Pittsburgh.

The AFC North-leading Steelers (7-6) have an extra day of recovery this week before hosting the Miami Dolphins (6-7) next Monday night.

–Field Level Media

Green Bay Packers cornerback Jaire Alexander (23) and inside linebacker Blake Martinez (50) chase Seattle Seahawks wide receiver D.K. Metcalf (14) during their NFC divisional round playoff football game on Sunday, January 12, 2020, at Lambeau Field in Green Bay, Wis. Green Bay defeated Seattle 28-23. Apc Packers Vs Seahawks 1631 011220 Wag

Reports: Packers in pursuit, Seahawks WR DK Metcalf has vast trade market

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DK Metcalf has a vast trade market and the Green Bay Packers, Las Vegas Raiders and Carolina Panthers pushed to the front of the line with bids to acquire the wide receiver from the Seattle Seahawks, NFL Network reported Friday.

Metcalf received permission from Seahawks general manager John Schneider for his agent to engage other teams to discuss a trade earlier this week.

Metcalf, 27, said he is only interested in playing for a contender and asked for a chance to look elsewhere on the same day the Seahawks parted with veteran wide receiver Tyler Lockett.

Metcalf, a two-time Pro Bowl selection, is set to count $31.875 million against the team’s salary cap in 2025, per Spotrac. Metcalf can become a free agent in 2026, meaning any trade likely cost his new team draft capital and real money in the trade-then-sign transaction.

Metcalf has 438 receptions for 6,324 yards and 48 touchdowns in 97 career games (93 starts) in six seasons with the Seahawks, who selected him in the second round of the 2019 draft.

The Seahawks finished 10-7 last season, its first under new head coach Mike Macdonald, but missed the playoffs after losing the tiebreaker to the Los Angeles Rams for the NFC West title.

Seattle parted with Lockett on Wednesday in a cost-cutting move. He was set to make $17 million this season, including a $5.3 million roster bonus due March 16.

The Raiders are a logical destination for both players considering Las Vegas hired Pete Carroll as head coach. Carroll coached Lockett and Metcalf in Seattle.

Carolina would like to bring in a bona fide No. 1 receiver. The Panthers drafted Xavier Legette in 2024 to develop as Bryce Young’s top target.

Green Bay publicly downplayed the need for a lead receiver for quarterback Jordan Love and has been connected to a possible reunion with recently released Davante Adams.

Seattle’s passing game shifted targets to Jaxon Smith-Njigba, who hauled in 100 catches last season, 34 more than Metcalf. Lockett finished with 49.

The Denver Broncos, Los Angeles Chargers and Baltimore Ravens also have been connected to interest in Metcalf.

–Field Level Media

Dec 8, 2024; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Seattle Seahawks wide receiver DK Metcalf (14) against the Arizona Cardinals at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

Reports: Seahawks give WR DK Metcalf OK to seek trade

Posted on | by Field Level Media

The Seattle Seahawks have given standout wide receiver DK Metcalf permission to seek a trade, ESPN and NFL Network reported Wednesday.

Metcalf, 27, requested a trade to join a contender and the team has agreed to explore options, per the reports. The news hits the same day that the Seahawks released veteran wide receiver Tyler Lockett.

Metcalf, a two-time Pro Bowl selection, is set to count $31.875 million against the team’s salary cap in 2025, per Spotrac. He’s set to become an unrestricted free agent in 2026, meaning any trade likely would have to come with an extension.

Metcalf has 438 receptions for 6,324 yards and 48 touchdowns in 97 career games (93 starts) in six seasons with the Seahawks, who selected him in the second round of the 2019 draft.

The Seahawks finished 10-7 last season, its first under new head coach Mike Macdonald, but missed the playoffs after losing the tiebreaker to the Los Angeles Rams for the NFC West title.

Earlier Wednesday, the Seahawks released Lockett in a cost-cutting move. He was set to make $17 million this season, including a $5.3 million roster bonus due March 16.

Seattle’s passing game has shifted to Jaxon Smith-Njigba, who hauled in 100 catches last season, 34 more than Metcalf. Lockett finished with 49.

–Field Level Media

Oct 20, 2024; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Seattle Seahawks wide receiver DK Metcalf (14) makes a catch over Atlanta Falcons cornerback A.J. Terrell (24) during the first half at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-Imagn Images

Seahawks WR DK Metcalf (knee) returns to practice

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Seattle Seahawks wide receiver DK Metcalf, who hadn’t practiced since spraining his right knee in an Oct. 20 game against the Atlanta Falcons, was a full participant on Wednesday.

Metcalf hopes to return to action when Seattle (4-5) visits the San Francisco 49ers (5-4) on Sunday. He sustained a Grade 1 MCL sprain in the Seahawks’ 34-14 road victory against the Falcons. Seattle then lost home games to the Buffalo Bills and the Los Angeles Rams before a bye in Week 10.

Metcalf has 35 receptions on 61 targets for 568 yards and three touchdowns in seven games (six starts) this season.

Seattle selected him in the second round of the 2019 NFL Draft out of Ole Miss. A two-time Pro Bowl selection, Metcalf has 407 receptions for 5,900 yards and 46 touchdowns in 89 regular-season games (87 starts). He also has 26 receptions for 451 yards and five TDs in four playoff games, all starts.

The Seahawks activated right tackle Abraham Lucas off the physically unable to perform list on Wednesday, at the end of his 21-day practice window. If Lucas had not been activated, he would have stayed on the PUP list for the remainder of the season.

Lucas, 26, was a third-round pick of the Seahawks in 2022. He started all 22 games he played in 2022 and 2023 but was limited to six games last season because of a knee injury that required surgery, putting him on the PUP list.

To make room for Lucas on the 53-man roster, Seattle placed offensive tackle George Fant on injured reserve that will require he miss at least four games. Fant, 32, played two games, both starts, this season before leaving each contest with a knee injury.

Seahawks coach Mike Macdonald said he was uncertain if Fant would be able to play again this season.

–Field Level Media

Oct 27, 2024; Seattle, Washington, USA; Seattle Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald, left, talks with wide receiver DK Metcalf, right during in pregame warmups against the Buffalo Bills at Lumen Field. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-Imagn Images

Seahawks WR DK Metcalf, TE Noah Fant ruled out vs. Rams

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Seattle Seahawks wide receiver DK Metcalf is out against the visiting Los Angeles Rams Sunday.

Metcalf, who sustained a Grade 1 strain of the medial collateral ligament in his knee in the Seahawks’ 34-14 victory over the Atlanta Falcons in Week 7, will miss his second straight game.

Seattle coach Mike Macdonald told reporters Friday that there was no particular setback this week.

“He just needs more time,” Macdonald said. “It’s nothing he could have done differently, we just need more time for him, so that’s what’s best for him and the team.”

Macdonald did not commit to a set return date when asked whether Metcalf will be ready after the Seahawks’ Week 10 bye.

“With these things, we said week-to-week from the get go. I think that’s where we’re at at this point, so I think it’s fair to say we’re taking it week by week at this point. I think that’s a fair assessment.”

Metcalf, 26, leads Seattle in receiving yards (568) and receiving touchdowns (three) to go along with his 35 catches in seven games this season.

The Seahawks (4-4) will also face the NFC West rival Rams (3-4) without tight end Noah Fant, who injured his groin in practice Wednesday. Nose tackle Cameron Young will miss his third straight game with a knee injury.

Macdonald said Fant will miss “some time” and may not be ready out of the bye week, but the team does not think he will land on injured reserve.

Meanwhile, Young has played in just one game this season, when he logged three snaps in a Week 6 win against San Francisco. He spent the first five weeks on the physically unable to perform list with an undisclosed injury.

–Field Level Media

Oct 10, 2024; Seattle, Washington, USA; Seattle Seahawks wide receiver DK Metcalf (14) carries the ball after a catch during the first half against the San Francisco 49ers at Lumen Field. Mandatory Credit: Steven Bisig-Imagn Images

Seahawks WR DK Metcalf (knee) doubtful vs. Bills

Posted on | by Field Level Media

Seattle Seahawks wide receiver DK Metcalf is listed as doubtful to play against the visiting Buffalo Bills on Sunday.

Metcalf sustained a Grade 1 strain of the medial collateral ligament in his knee last Sunday in the Seahawks’ 34-14 victory over the Atlanta Falcons.

Seattle head coach Mike Macdonald told reporters on Friday that there’s a chance Metcalf can play against Buffalo despite failing to participate in practice all week.

“It’s doubtful right now for the game,” Macdonald said. “It’s not out of the question, 100 percent yet so we will take it to Sunday, and we’ll go from there.”

Metcalf, 26, leads the Seahawks in receiving yards (568) and receiving touchdowns (three) to go along with 35 catches in seven games this season. Jaxon Smith-Njigba, who has a club-best 37 receptions, and Tyler Lockett will be looked upon to pick up the slack should Metcalf sit out for Seattle (4-3).

Running back Kenneth Walker III does not carry an injury designation after returning to a full practice on Friday. He had been nursing an illness.

Nose tackle Cameron Young (knee) is doubtful to face Buffalo (5-2), while cornerbacks Tre Brown (ankle) and Nehemiah Pritchett (ankle) and defensive end Mike Morris (ankle) are questionable.

“Tre practiced today and is trending positively for the game,” Macdonald said. “Anything can happen between now and then but (we’re) optimistic with Tre.”

–Field Level Media