DETROIT — Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver DK Metcalf will not be charged in connection with an incident involving a Detroit Lions fan last December at Ford Field.
Prosecutors said the 45-year-old Detroit Lions fan started heckling Metcalf during the second quarter of the game on Dec. 21, 2025.
The man left his seat holding a Metcalf jersey as he moved through the front railing of the stands to get an autograph, prosecutors said.
Metcalf then approached the stands where he briefly argued with the man before he grabbed his shirt and pushed him back, prosecutors said.
Prosecutors said the fan did not appear to be injured, nor did he seek medical attention at the game.
Investigators talked to the fan, security staff and other fans who were nearby. They also looked at video footage from various angles that captured the interaction.
"After an extensive review of all the relevant evidence, the Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office has determined that charges will not issue in this case," prosecutors said.
The fan, who identified himself to the Detroit Free Press as Ryan Kennedy, claims he angered Metcalf by calling him by his legal name rather than his common nickname, DK.
On the other hand, a source close to Metcalf told NFL Insider Tom Pelissero that Kennedy called Metcalf’s mother a derogatory word and then made a racist comment toward Metcalf.
Kennedy filed a $100 million lawsuit against Metcalf, NFL legend Chad “Ochocinco” Johnson and multiple media companies over allegations of a racial slur. He claims defamation, negligence, and other claims after being falsely branded as a racist in the national media.
Sign up for free local newsletters and alerts for the
Detroit, MI Patch
Patch.com is the nationwide leader in hyperlocal news.
Visit Patch.com to find your town today.