DK Metcalf sign language, explained: Why Seahawks star learned how to silently trash-talk NFL opponents
Trash talking is slowly decreasing in the NFL. Whether fans, players and coaches like it or not, the league is cracking down on taunting, as they want their participants to set a good example for the younger audience.
There are undoubtedly ways to get around the flags and fines, but DK Metcalf has found the perfect loophole: sign language.
The Seahawks wide receiver has admitted that he has begun taking ASL (American sign language) classes on his off days, learning the different hand motions to communicate with deaf people. While he may very well be picking up ASL due to family or friends that are hearing-impaired, he’s also bringing the unique language on the field with him.
Here is more on Metcalf’s sign language and his reason for picking it up
DK Metcalf sign language, explained
Metcalf’s sign language was first noticed in Week 11. After he scored a first-quarter touchdown against the Rams, he had a unique celebration, touching his hand to his chest before putting his palm to his forehead and the back down towards his chest.
Turns out, it was a way of taunting Los Angeles cornerback Ahkello Witherspoon, as Metcalf signed “44, my son.”
He did it again in Week 13 on “Thursday Night Football” when the Seahawks opened the prime time matchup against the Cowboys with a 73-yard touchdown from Geno Smith to Metcalf. This time, he signed, “Stand on business.”
While it may not have been picked up by fans until mid-November, Metcalf has discussed the topic before. He went on The Rich Eisen Show earlier in the season where he brought up learning sign language and the reason behind it.
“I kept getting flagged for my mouthing, so got to sign my s—talking now,” Metcalf explained.
Eisen brought up a great point — what happens if an official on the field knows sign language and understands what Metcalf is signing?
“I’ll just be talking to him on the side, we’ll have our own dialogue,” Metcalf said with a chuckle. “It’s somebody else to talk to.”
So if there are any football fans out there who also know sign language, watch the next time you see Metcalf making hand motions. He may be speaking a language only a select few can understand.
