“The bone missed”: Mike Florio calls out Tom Pelissero for jumping the gun and siding with Lions fan who got punched by DK Metcalf

Popular sportswriter Mike Florio has called out NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero for his coverage of DK Metcalf’s altercation with a Lions fan. Pelissero had reported on Tuesday that the NFL “will not take action against the fan involved in the altercation” with Metcalf.

However, the league debunked this report on Wednesday, writing in an email to ProFootballTalk:

“The report about the fan and discipline was not accurate. The matter remains under review, and the league is following up with the club.”

In a ProFootballTalk publication on Wednesday, Florio noted that the Ford Field Guest Code of Conduct forbids “using foul or abusive language or obscene gestures.”

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Criticizing Pelissero’s unbalanced report, Florio wrote:

“Perhaps the looming possibility of a defamation lawsuit based on the report that the fan directed a slur at Metcalf and a derogatory comment about Metcalf’s mother prompted Pelissero to throw the fan a bone. Regardless, the bone missed.”

DK Metcalf was caught on camera appearing to swing at and punch a fan during the Steelers' road win against the Lions on Sunday. Metcalf was subsequently penalized by the NFL with a two-game suspension, which he’ll serve in the next two games against Cleveland and Baltimore.

DK Metcalf’s failed appeal and implications for contract

The 28-year-old wide receiver appealed the suspension, which carries huge financial implications for him. However, the suspension was upheld in a decision on Tuesday. Consequently, the veteran will lose $555,556 for missing the Steelers’ next two games.

The suspension has a deeper impact on his $132 million contract with the Steelers. According to a clause in the deal, his $45 million guarantee will be voided if he doesn’t practice or play with Pittsburgh for any reason.

DK Metcalf penned a four-year deal with the Steelers in March after moving from the Seattle Seahawks. He has been part of the team’s impressive run this season, sitting on top of the AFC North with a 9-6 record.

He has caught the ball 56 times for 850 yards and six touchdowns this season. He has an additional 12 rushing yards and a touchdown on two carries. The Steelers will be hoping to have Metcalf back ahead of the playoffs.

The two-time Pro Bowler is one of the most experienced hands in Pittsburgh’s wide receivers room, and his presence will be crucial for its offense.

Edited by Kayode Akinwumi