DK Metcalf Will Lose More Than $45M After NFL Upholds Suspension

A split-second decision may cost DK Metcalf more than a third of his contract.

After the Steelers wide receiver appealed a two-game suspension issued after an altercation with a fan, the NFL upheld the suspension Tuesday. The league handed Metcalf the suspension for “conduct detrimental to the NFL” after the two-time Pro Bowler swung at and appeared to make contact with a fan at Ford Field during a game between the Steelers and Lions.

The interaction was captured by CBS cameras. Metcalf was not removed from the game. 

Metcalf, who signed a four-year, $132 million contract with the Steelers in March after he was acquired from the Seahawks, will lose $555,556 for missing Pittsburgh’s final two games of the season ($277,778 per game). 

The suspension also voids $45 million in guaranteed money over the next two seasons. Metcalf’s contract states that if he fails “to practice or play with the Club for any reason,” the guarantees will be “null and void,” according to CBS Sports,  

The guaranteed money is split between 2026 ($25 million) and 2027 ($20 million). The Steelers could choose to part ways with Metcalf to cut costs, but it would be surprising if the team decided to part ways with their No. 1 receiver.

The void gives the Steelers flexibility in case they need to make a move, or if Metcalf goes down with injury. But the contract still reportedly has injury-protection beginning in 2027, meaning Metcalf would still be guaranteed $20 million that season if he sustains a football-related injury.