The NFL ruled on Tuesday that it will not reduce Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver D.K. Metcalf’s two-game suspension for initiating contact with a fan during Sunday’s game at Detroit.
The decision means Metcalf will miss the rest of the regular season as the Steelers (9-6) attempt to hold on to their one-game lead over the Baltimore Ravens (8-7) in the AFC North race.
During the Steelers’ 29-24 win over the Lions, Metcalf walked behind Pittsburgh’s sideline toward a Lions fan leaning over the front row. Metcalf raised his right hand to grab the fan, who was wearing a blue wig, and then appeared to try to punch the man as he leaned back.
Metcalf was not penalized during the game, but multiple cameras caught the interaction and that’s what led to the initial two-game suspension handed down Monday.
With Metcalf sidelined when the Steelers play Sunday at the Cleveland Browns and host the Ravens in the regular-season finale on Jan. 4, Pittsburgh will be without its leader in receiving yards (850), touchdown receptions (six) and targets (99). He ranks second on the team with 59 catches.
Prior to the NFL’s upholding of the suspension, Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin weighed in Tuesday on Metcalf’s behavior.
“He did explain to me why he did what he did, and I certainly don’t condone the behavior, but I support D.K.,” Tomlin said. “And I really don’t have a lot to add other than what I just told you.”
