Why Would DK Metcalf Do The Unthinkable And Apparently Take A Swing At Lions Fan During Game In Detroit?
Broadcast video showed the receiver appearing to throw a punch a Lions fan in the stands at Ford Field in Week 16.
The Pittsburgh Steelers are in the midst of a playoff chase and trying to win the AFC North, but they might be without star wide receiver DK Metcalf for critical games down the stretch once the NFL takes a look at the unacceptable action by Metcalf during the second quarter in Detroit on Sunday.
According to a report from the CBS broadcast, a Lions fan near the Steelers bench held out a Steelers jersey and drew the attention of the Pittsburgh star. But when Metcalf went over to the fan, words were allegedly exchanged. That's when Metcalf did something no athlete should ever do.
He appeared to throw a punch at the fan. Seriously.
Pittsburgh Steelers WR DK Metcalf appears to throw a punch at a Detroit Lions fan during NFL Week 16.
(NFL on CBS)
A professional athlete, on the sideline during a game, took a legitimate swing at an opposing fan. I almost didn't believe what I was watching. Luckily, Metcalf's hand appeared to miss connecting with the fan's face, but that's not going to make the discipline from the NFL come down any less harsh.
While CBS cameras captured the altercation, no one from the officiating crew at the game saw it, so Metcalf suffered no immediate consequences. He remained in the game and went on the field with the Steelers' offense during the next drive.
However, there's no question that the league is going to hand him a significant punishment that will almost certainly involve financial penalties and a potential suspension.
There are so many things wrong with this scene. First, even if the fan were a Steelers fan who legitimately wanted a photo, an autograph or just to speak with Metcalf, there's no need for the wide receiver to engage with fans in the middle of the game. It's one thing to show love to fans before or after games, but doing it during the game invites potential problems.
Plus, Metcalf isn't in Pittsburgh and this isn't a home crowd. There's even less upside in going near the stands in this situation. It's really hard to fathom what Metcalf was thinking, but he's going to pay severely for his inexcusable lack of self-control at that moment.
We will provide more information as it becomes available.