Pittsburgh Steelers’ DK Metcalf has been suspended for 2 video games over an unsightly incident with a Detroit Lions fan within the stands throughout a sport on Monday (AEDT).
Metcalf was caught on digital camera throwing a punch at a fan leaning over the barricade throughout his group’s conflict with Detroit, the Steelers star seen having phrases with fan Ryan Kennedy, earlier than he threw the punch.
The NFL handed the Steelers participant the two-game ban, that means Metcalf will miss the remainder of the common season.
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The fan on the centre of an unsightly altercation with the Pittsburgh receiver was accused of shouting racial slurs at Metcalf, however has “categorically denied” utilizing derogatory language in direction of the participant.
Kennedy launched a press release by way of a Michigan regulation agency stating that at no time did he use “racial slurs or hate speech” of any variety.
“At no level earlier than, throughout or after the incident did Mr Kennedy use racial slurs or hate speech of any variety,” the assertion learn.
“The claims suggesting in any other case are unfaithful and should not supported by video proof, eyewitness accounts, or any contemporaneous reporting. Regardless of reviews within the media final night time and at present, Mr Kennedy has not used such language throughout an interplay with Mr Metcalf or some other gamers up to now.
“Since these false statements started circulating publicity, Mr Kennedy has been subjected to harassment, threats, and messages advocating violence, creating critical concern for his and his household’s private security and well-being.
DK Metcalf will miss the remainder of the NFL common season. Getty
“No personal particular person must be falsely branded with such accusations or uncovered to threats primarily based on misinformation.”
When pressed by media, Kennedy mentioned he known as Metcalf by his “full authorities identify”, and the participant shoved him in anger, however podcast host and NFL legend Chad “Ochocinco” Johnson informed a special story.
“I obtained phrase, clearly, I am not condoning placing your fingers on a fan or punching a fan, however he did name [Metcalf] a racial slur,” Johnson informed his co-host Shannon Sharpe.
“He known as him the N-word, and he did name his mother a c—. I feel with these phrases being exchanged and the fan saying that, that is the place the motion occurred.”
DK Metcalf punches a Detroit Lions fan. Twitter
Later within the episode, Johnson revealed that Metcalf himself was his supply for the data.
No referee noticed the incident on the sidelines, that means Metcalf was not ejected or flagged for the incident, and he remained within the sport.
Nevertheless, ESPN NFL reporter Adam Schefter confirmed on social media that the NFL is reviewing the incident for potential self-discipline. That self-discipline is now a two-game ban.
The Detroit Information additionally reported that native police had been seen speaking to followers within the space at half time.
“Oh my gosh,” CBS commentator and former Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo mentioned upon seeing the replay of the punch.
“Oh my goodness.”
CBS broadcaster Jim Nantz added: “That isn’t going to have good penalties for the Steelers and Metcalf”.
The incident occurred throughout a timeout within the second quarter.
The fan continued berating the receiver after the incident, and even threw his arms up in celebration.
Metcalf has one catch for 5 yards regardless of six targets within the first half in opposition to Detroit.
It is an infinite sport for each groups’ playoff hopes, with each coming into with 8-6 information.
CBS sideline reporter Tracy Wolfson reported that he approached the fan as a result of they had been holding a reproduction of his Steelers jersey, regardless of sporting a blue wig to help the Lions.
Metcalf has been Pittsburgh’s main receiver this season, after being traded from Seattle.
– With Sophie Correctly
