Is TJ Metcalf related to DK Metcalf? Exploring their family ties
Yes, TJ Metcalf and DK Metcalf are related. They are cousins, as noted in several publications like Sports Illustrated as well as Arkansas' official website. DK Metcalf is a star wide receiver for the Seattle Seahawks in the NFL, while TJ Metcalf is making his name as a sophomore safety for the Arkansas Razorbacks.
The Metcalf legacy: Family background of TJ Metcalf and NFL star DK Metcalf
TJ Metcalf, whose full name is Tarrus Metcalf Jr., was born on May 6, 2005, in Oxford, Mississippi. He is the son of Tarrus Metcalf Sr. and Neely Lott Metcalf, who are both graduates of the University of Mississippi. Tarrus Sr. also played football for Ole Miss.
TJ has a sister, Tinsley, and a brother, Tevis, who is a freshman Arkansas defensive back.
On the other hand, DK Metcalf was born on December 14, 1997, in Oxford, Mississippi. He is the son of Terrence Metcalf, a former NFL offensive lineman. DK played college football for Ole Miss before he transitioned to the NFL. He has achieved milestones in his professional football career, including Pro Bowl selections and an All-Pro nod.
TJ Metcalf's college football career
As a freshman at Arkansas in 2023, TJ Metcalf made an impact by appearing in all 12 games. He contributed both on special teams and in the secondary, finishing the season with 15 tackles.
Key moments of his college football career included four tackles and a fumble recovery in his collegiate debut against Western Carolina on September 2, three tackles in a road win against Florida, and a career-high five tackles against Auburn on November 11.
In 2024, TJ Metcalf has become a standout player for the Razorbacks. He recorded a career-high 12 tackles against Oklahoma State on Sept. 7. He also delivered a key performance against Auburn on Sept. 21, contributing to four of Arkansas' five takeaways with two interceptions, a forced fumble, and a pass breakup.
He added two tackles, a fumble recovery, and an interception in a dominant 58-25 victory against Mississippi State. Most recently, he recorded six tackles and a pass breakup in the game against Ole Miss on Nov. 2.
Arkansas Razorbacks 2024 season overview
The Arkansas Razorbacks (5-5, 3-4 SEC), under fifth-year coach Sam Pittman, started strong with a dominant 70-0 win over UAPB on August 29.
A highlight of their season was a 19-14 victory against No. 4 Tennessee on October 5. They also delivered an impressive 58-25 win over Mississippi State on October 26. However, they struggled in defense in a tough 63-31 loss to Ole Miss on November 2.
Offensively, the Razorbacks have been strong, ranking 7th nationally in total yards per game. For Arkansas, the leading contributors include quarterback Taylen Green with 2,213 passing yards, running back Ja’Quinden Jackson with 592 rushing yards, and wide receiver Andrew Armstrong with 857 receiving yards.