Star wide receiver DK Metcalf was fined $12,172 by the NFL on Saturday for unnecessary roughness following an incident in last week’s game against the Green Bay Packers. The penalty came after Metcalf struck Packers linebacker Quay Walker in the helmet during a skirmish.
Despite the penalty, Metcalf’s impact on the Pittsburgh Steelers this season has been undeniable. He leads the team in all major receiving categories with 27 catches for 461 yards and five touchdowns. In the game against Green Bay, he recorded five receptions for 55 yards and a score.
Pittsburgh acquired Metcalf from the Seattle Seahawks for 2025 second- and seventh-round draft picks, quickly cementing his role as a franchise cornerstone with a five-year, $150 million contract extension in March. He has rapidly become quarterback Aaron Rodgers’ top target, and their chemistry has been a bright spot for the offense.
However, the team’s overall trajectory has shifted. After a strong 4-1 start, the Steelers have dropped two consecutive games and now face a crucial stretch of their season, particularly with the rival Baltimore Ravens finding their form.
Much of the team’s recent struggles stem from an underperforming defense, which is the most expensive in the NFL. The initial expectation was for the defense to dominate while the offense managed games, but those roles have been reversed, placing a heavier burden on Rodgers, Metcalf, and the entire offensive unit.
The offense will need to be potent again in Week 9 as the Steelers prepare to host the 7-1 Indianapolis Colts, led by running back Jonathan Taylor. For Pittsburgh to secure a much-needed victory, Metcalf will be called upon to deliver key plays while maintaining his composure to avoid costly penalties.
The Steelers and Colts are scheduled for a 1 p.m. ET kickoff on CBS.
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