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The Detroit Lions fan who got into an argument with Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver DK Metcalf during a game Sunday night denied using derogatory language toward the player.
Ryan Kennedy released a statement through Head Murphy Law in Michigan on Monday, denying allegations that he used the “N-word,” the “C-word” or “any racial, misogynistic or hate-based slur against Metcalf.” Kennedy’s representatives called the allegations “completely false.”
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DK Metcalf #4 of the Pittsburgh Steelers looks on during the game against the Detroit Lions at Ford Field on December 21, 2025 in Detroit, Michigan. (Nic Antaya/Getty Images)
“At no time before, during or after the incident did Mr. Kennedy use racial slurs or hate speech of any kind,” the statement read. “The allegations suggesting otherwise are untrue and not supported by video evidence, eyewitness accounts or any contemporaneous reporting. Despite media reports last night and today, Mr. Kennedy has not used such language during any interaction with Mr. Metcalf or any other players in the past.
“Since these false statements began to circulate publicly, Mr. Kennedy has been subject to harassment, threats and messages advocating violence, which have created serious concerns for his and his family’s personal safety and well-being. No private individual should be falsely labeled with such allegations or subjected to threats based on misinformation.”
The statement said Kennedy will have no further comment as a lawsuit is expected.
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver DK Metcalf (4) during the NFL game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Los Angeles Chargers on November 9, 2025 at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, CA. (Jevone Moore/Icon Sportswire)
DK METCALF, LAMAR JACKSON AND OTHER NFL PLAYERS WHO HAVE HAD FAN WRITING
Metcalf was seen confronting the fan, who was near the barrier on the Steelers’ sideline. He tugged at the fan’s shirt and swung at the man wearing a black and blue shirt and a blue wig.
The man told the Detroit Free Press that Metcalf was upset that he called the wide receiver by his full name.
However, the NFL Network offered a conflicting report. The outlet said Metcalf reacted the way he did because the fan used derogatory language towards him and made a remark about his mother. Metcalf reportedly had a negative experience with the fan last year when he played for the Seattle Seahawks.
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Metcalf is expected to face discipline in either the form of a fine or suspension.
