DK Metcalf
Steelers-Texans wild card: Metcalf returns as Pittsburgh eyes playoff breakthrough
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Fresh off clinching the AFC North, the Pittsburgh Steelers host the surging Houston Texans in the AFC wild card round on Jan. 12 (8:15 p.m. ET), boosted by wide receiver DK Metcalf's return from suspension. With new momentum and a healthy roster, Pittsburgh faces Houston's elite defense amid varied analyst takes and potential weather impacts at Acrisure Stadium.
The Pittsburgh Steelers have activated wide receiver DK Metcalf to their 53-man roster on January 7, 2026, after his temporary exemption expired, following the team's earlier waiver of cornerback Tre Flowers to create space. Metcalf returns from a two-game suspension ahead of the Wild Card playoff game against the Houston Texans.
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The NFL has upheld its initial two-game suspension of Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver DK Metcalf, first announced December 22, following his appeal over a Week 16 altercation with a Detroit Lions fan. The penalty sidelines him for regular-season finales against Cleveland and Baltimore as Pittsburgh vies for the AFC North and playoffs, drawing team support amid criticism for his emotional control.