DK Metcalf’s contract puts $26.5 million at risk, if the Steelers choose to play hardball

Currently, Steelers wide receiver D.K. Metcalf will lose $555,555 in base salary over his career. two game suspension This stems from his decision to initiate contact with a fan during Sunday's game in Detroit. This may just be the beginning.

First, the Steelers could — if they choose — try to recoup some of Metcalf's 2025 signing bonus. Based on a $30 million signing bonus on a five-year contract, Metcalf has a $6 million commitment for 2025. appropriations, or $1.5 million.

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Metcalf's contract explicitly mentions Article 4, Section 9, preserving the team's right to demand $1.5 million if the Steelers choose to do so.

Second, the suspension allows the Steelers to try to waive the remaining $25 million of Metcalf's fully guaranteed 2026 salary. While Metcalf's contract does not carry a potential voidable guarantee upon a suspension of two games or less “for violating the rules of the NFL,” Metcalf was suspended for conduct detrimental to the NFL, whose contract does not specify a minimum length of suspension.

This gives the Steelers the opportunity to try to void Metcalf's remaining $25 million in guarantees and release him after the season without any further financial obligation.

Having the opportunity to do it and deciding to do it are two different things. But if the Steelers decide to play hardball with Metcalf, the price could potentially skyrocket from $555,555 to $27.55 million.

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Before these financial considerations become relevant, the suspension must be final. Metcalf will inevitably appeal. The decision on the appeal will not be made by the hearing officer, jointly hired and paid by the NFL and the NFL Players Association, but by the commissioner or his designee.

If the appeal is denied, the Steelers could recover up to $1.5 million from Metcalf — and forfeit an additional $25 million Metcalf would otherwise be guaranteed to pay.