Pittsburgh Steelers' D.K. Metcalf Won't Face Criminal Charges

Pittsburgh Steelers' D.K. Metcalf Won't Face Criminal Charges

According to ESPN, Pittsburgh Steelers WR D.K. Metcalf will not face criminal charges stemming from his altercation with a fan at Ford Field during the Steelers' December game against the Detroit Lions.

According to a statement provided to the Detroit Free Press, the fan, Ryan Kennedy, "did not appear to be injured, nor did he seek medical attention at the game."

"At approximately 5:30 p.m., it is alleged that [Kennedy] left his seat holding a Metcalf jersey to get an autograph. As he approached the front railing of the stands, he said something to Mr. Metcalf. As Mr. Metcalf approached the stands, there was a brief interaction where Mr. Metcalf grabbed his shirt and pushed him back," the statement also said.

"After an extensive review of all the relevant evidence, the Wayne County Prosecutor's Office has determined that charges will not issue in this case."

Mitch Schuster, Metcalf's attorney, issued a statement in response to prosecutors not pursuing the charges saying that they "applaud the decision and are thankful for the hard work and thorough investigation that led to this just result."

He added that he vows to continue his civil legal fight on behalf of his client.

"We are confident that justice will also prevail in the civil claim involving Mr. Kennedy. As Mr. Metcalf's counterclaim in the civil case makes clear, Mr. Kennedy's hate-fueled conduct has no place anywhere, and especially not in professional sports," the statement said.

Kennedy is suing Metcalf, among others, for making "defamatory and life-altering statements." Former NFL players Chad Johnson and Shannon Sharpe are included in that lawsuit for publicly suggesting Metcalf's actions were motivated by Kennedy using racist language. That lawsuit remains ongoing.

Metcalf was suspended two games without pay for the incident, forfeiting more than $500,000 in game checks and voiding his $45 million in guarantees.

Metcalf had 59 receptions last season for 850 receiving yards and six receiving touchdowns. The 850 receiving yards were a career low for the two-time Pro Bowler.