The NFL reacts to DK Metcalf’s lapse and imposes a penalty. The wide receiver hit a Detroit fan in the stands, which probably cost him dearly.
DK Metcalf costs dearly for his outburst towards a fan during the Detroit Lions game.
The NFL handed the Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver a two-game suspension for his hit on a host supporter. He will therefore miss the two remaining games against the Cleveland Browns and Baltimore Ravens.
The league said in a statement that Metcalf’s behavior violated its code of conduct, which states that “a player may not go into the stands or otherwise confront fans at any time on game day.” Metcalf can still appeal the suspension.
But that’s not enough. The scandal will apparently have far-reaching financial consequences for the star receiver.
NFL: DK Metcalf’s suspension will probably cost him dearly
The suspension will cause Metcalf to miss the remainder of the regular season and forfeit more than $555,000 in salary.
However, the financial damage for future contract years is probably many times higher. According to CBS, the punishment for what the NFL calls “conduct detrimental to the league” will cost the player at least $45 million in guaranteed future earnings.
The 28-year-old could earn this amount in the next two years. The four-year, $132 million contract he signed in March stipulates that his guarantees will be “null and void” if he “fails to practice or play with the club for any reason,” including “a suspension of the player by the NFL or the club for detrimental conduct.”
NFL: DK Metcalf punches Detroit fan in the face
As the television images showed, Metcalf first approached the Lions supporter, who was also holding a distinctive yellow Steelers jersey or towel in his hand.
A brief conversation ensued, during which the fan apparently said something towards Metcalf. The 28-year-old then lost his temper and punched him once hard in the face.
Shortly afterwards, the Detroit fan can be seen raising his arms in celebration – possibly because he was happy that his potential provocation had been successful.
As it became known on Monday, the two disputers apparently have a common history. Metcalf reportedly reported the fan to Seahawks security last season while he was still playing in Seattle. This was reported by NFL insider Tom Pelissero.
