Wayne County Prosecutor's Office announced that no criminal charges will be filed against Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver DK Metcalf for his altercation with a Detroit Lions fan last December. The decision follows a thorough investigation by Detroit police. Metcalf's attorney welcomed the outcome.
The Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office stated that the fan, identified as Ryan Kennedy, did not appear to be injured and did not seek medical attention at the game. “The fan did not appear to be injured, nor did he seek medical attention at the game,” the office said, according to reporter Niraj Warikoo. Prosecutors found insufficient evidence to charge Metcalf after reviewing video angles and witness interviews. As of February, the investigation was ongoing with a warrant request issued in January, but it concluded without charges on May 1, 2026. The incident occurred on December 21, 2025, during a Steelers-Lions game at Ford Field. Metcalf approached Kennedy in the stands after an exchange of words, leading to physical contact. Officials missed it in real time, but the NFL suspended Metcalf for the final two regular-season games. He returned for Pittsburgh’s Wild Card playoff game against the Houston Texans. Metcalf’s attorney, Mitch Schuster, issued a statement praising the decision: “We applaud the decision and are thankful for the hard work and thorough investigation that led to this just result. We are confident that justice will also prevail in the civil claim involving Mr. Kennedy.” Schuster noted Kennedy’s alleged hate-fueled conduct, including a prior 2024 incident. Kennedy has filed a $100 million civil lawsuit against Metcalf, which remains ongoing with a status conference scheduled for later this month. Metcalf, acquired by the Steelers from the Seattle Seahawks in March 2025, recorded 59 receptions for 850 yards and six touchdowns in his first season with Pittsburgh. The NFL has since updated rules to allow review of similar in-game incidents.
