Seahawks' Metcalf Defends Cheap Shot; NFL Fine Coming?

In the wake of a cheap shot Sunday that drew a taunting penalty and might result in a fine from the NFL, Seattle Seahawks' receiver DK Metcalf explains that he was merely "blocking."

Outscored 23-0 in the second half. Injuries to key offensive players. And, in the end, a dismal opening-game home loss to a divisional foe.

It was a forgettable Sunday for the Seattle Seahawks. And late in the 30-13 loss to the Los Angeles Rams, receiver DK Metcalf channeled all of our frustration. It might have gotten lost amid a second half in which coach Pete Carroll admitted his offense "didn't do anything" and the injuries to receiver Tyler Lockett and starting tackles Abe Lucas and Charles, but Metcalf's fourth-quarter cheap shot will likely get the attention of the NFL's front office this week.

Though he did grab a 10-yard touchdown pass that helped Seattle to a 13-7 halftime lead, Metcalf was held to just three catches and 47 yards. His emotions boiled over in the fourth quarter.

With the Seahawks trailing 27-13 with just under five minutes remaining, quarterback Geno Smith hit tight end Colby Parkinson for an 8-yard gain. On the other side of the field - and after the whistle - Metcalf took out his day's frustration with a cheap-shot hit on unsuspecting Rams' cornerback Ahkello Witherspoon.

USA Today

As Witherspoon was helped off the field by medical personnel, Rams' coach Sean McVay yelled "that's so bad!" toward the officials.

Rams head coach Sean McVay was not pleased after this dirty hit from Seahawks star D.K Metcalf injured one of his players... Metcalf was flagged for taunting on the play. pic.twitter.com/XOTWBOd52a

— The Comeback (@thecomeback) September 10, 2023

Metcalf was eventually flagged 15 yards for taunting, turning 2nd-and-2 into 2nd-and-17. After consecutive sacks of Smith, the Seahawks faced 4th-and-34 and were forced to punt, effectively ending any faint hopes of a comeback.

After the game, Metcalf attempted to explain - and defend - his hit that will likely draw a fine from the league office.

"Well, I was blocking," Metcalf said. "I guess I blocked him a little too hard and pushed him to the ground, and he got up mad because he felt like I blocked him in the back. But I mean, that’s just how I play. I block every play when I don’t have the ball and I’m never taking a play off or jogging, trying to take a play off. So that’s what transpired."

In 2022, Metcalf was flagged eight times, including two unsportsmanlike conduct penalties and one taunting penalty.

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