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Texans HC DeMeco Ryans reacts to threat DK Metcalf poses in Wild Card matchup after suspension

Brian Jones Profile Picby: Brian Jones01/08/26brianjones_93

Houston Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans understands the challenge his team will have defending Pittsburgh Steelers WR DK Metcalf, who will be back with the team after a two-game suspension. While speaking to reporters on Thursday, Ryans discussed the threat Metcalf poses when the Texans face the Steelers in the wild-card round of the playoffs Monday night.

“He lines up as an outside receiver. He does an outstanding job of just playing physical,” DeMeco Ryans said of Metcalf, per Aaron Wilson of KPRC2. “That’s the one thing that sticks out for me with him. He’s a physical receiver, whether he’s running the go balls, slants, whatever it looks like, he plays physical. So we have to challenge him.

“We have to step up to the challenge there. We have to play physical as well vs. him. It’s going to be a tough challenge. He’s done a great job his entire career of making big plays down the field. I know they’re excited to get him back.”

Metcalf was suspended due to his altercation with a fan during the Week 16 game against the Detroit Lions. When the former Ole Miss receiver returned to the Steelers this week, he didn’t say anything about the incident.

DK Metcalf doesn’t comment on incident with fan

“I can’t say anything about what happened,” Metcalf said, “for the fifth time.” Metcalf appealed the suspension, but the decision was upheld. He said he was surprised that his appeal was denied, but was expected to be back with his team.

DK Metcalf had a solid 2025 season with the Steelers. In 15 games, the 28-year-old caught 59 passes for 850 yards and six touchdowns. He joined the Steelers this season after spending the previous six years with the Seattle Seahawks. During that time, Metcalf was selected to the Pro Bowl twice and named to the All-Pro Second Team in 2020.

The Steelers clinched a playoff spot after beating the Baltimore Ravens last week. Pittsburgh clinched the AFC North, which means they are hosting the Texans on Monday night. A win against the Texans would be big for the Steelers, since they haven’t won a playoff game since the 2017 season.