The Green Bay Packers’ 35–25 victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday night was marred by an alarming incident that has drawn the attention of league officials. Packers president Ed Policy has formally called on the NFL to review a third-quarter altercation in which Steelers wide receiver DK Metcalf appeared to jab his fingers through linebacker Quay Walker’s facemask, making contact near the eye.
The incident occurred midway through the third quarter after a routine tackle near the sideline. As both players exchanged words, slow-motion replays clearly showed Metcalf reaching toward Walker’s helmet and striking dangerously close to his eye. Walker immediately stumbled backward, grabbing his facemask as teammates rushed to his aid.
Dk Metcalf picks up a dumb penalty pic.twitter.com/dJilssCpUB
— Tedd Buddwell 🏀🏈 (@TedBuddy8) October 27, 2025
Officials penalized the Steelers for unnecessary roughness, a 15-yard flag that many — including the Packers’ leadership — considered far too lenient for the severity of the act.
Speaking after the game, Ed Policy expressed strong concern over the league’s handling of such incidents, emphasizing that true player safety requires consistent accountability.
“Player safety is non-negotiable. That was not a football play — that was a deliberate, dangerous act. Fifteen yards isn’t justice. We expect the league to look into this and take the appropriate action.”
Policy’s comments resonated across the NFL community. Analysts on multiple networks described the play as “reckless” and “intentional,” urging the league to issue additional discipline, potentially including a fine or suspension.
Walker was evaluated on the sideline but returned later in the game, contributing to a strong defensive effort that helped secure Green Bay’s comeback win.
“Football is a tough game,” he added. “But there’s a line between competition and endangerment — and that line was clearly crossed tonight.”
