The latest chapter in the DK Metcalf–Ryan Kennedy saga unfolded Sunday when FOX Sports’ Jay Glazer reported before kickoff that the Pittsburgh Steelers receiver had filed a formal security complaint against Kennedy in September 2024, while Metcalf was still with the Seattle Seahawks.
“I actually have the security communication between the Detroit Lions and Seattle Seahawks security from a game last year,” Glazer said. “DK Metcalf … complained about that exact same fan to security. He asked that the fan be removed over very derogatory comments. I’m not going to repeat what the comments are on here.
“In this, it says, when we investigated during the game the individuals around corroborated that the fan was being out of line and had indeed said these derogatory statements. They even asked us to remove (Kennedy).”
Despite that prior incident, the NFL ruled Metcalf will serve a two-game suspension for his altercation with Kennedy. The league and the Lions also confirmed Kennedy will not face additional discipline, such as a ban from attending games, and Metcalf’s appeal was denied.
DK Metcalf accused Ryan Kennedy of using racial slurs, asking for retraction
Video from the incident shows Metcalf approaching a fan wearing a blue wig, grabbing it and swiping it toward him. Kennedy has said Metcalf became upset after being called by his full “government name.” Metcalf has disputed that version of events, saying Kennedy directed a racial slur at him and used a derogatory term for his mother, according to the NFL Network.
Kennedy addressed the situation Friday during a news conference alongside his attorneys, calling on Metcalf to publicly retract any allegations of racism.
“I didn’t use any racial slurs, no hate speech… none of that stuff at the game. Actually never… So to DeKaylin, if you’re watching this man, just if you could just say that please,” Kennedy said.
Kennedy’s attorneys framed the news conference as a response to what they described as “serious consequences,” including threats to Kennedy’s safety, while disputing what has been “repeated as fact” online.