The Houston Texans haven’t had the season that fans hoped for entering the year. With only one win, the Texans are on a fast pace to the first overall selection in the next NFL Draft. While fans and players may feel down about the season, they can look forward to a much improved year in 2023.
The Houston Texans selected John Metchie with the 44th overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft. Some fans may have forgotten about Metchie since he was coming off an injury, which led him to slip into the second round. Metchie has fans and the Texans organization excited but won’t step on the field this season because of a leukemia diagnosis. Fortunately, the leukemia is curable, and Metchie is well on his way back to the field in his recovery.
The Alabama alum had a very successful collegiate career winning a National Title. Unfortunately, Metchie tore his ACL last season against Georgia in the 2021 SEC Championship. He only played in one half of football but had an incredible 97 receiving yards and a touchdown.
Metchie recorded 1141 receiving yards and 14 touchdowns, the best season of his college career. He was on pace to play close to the beginning of this NFL season for the Texans but then received news regarding leukemia. Once he is fully recovered and available to return, his collegiate success will translate well into the league.
Brotherhood. 🤝
— NFL Canada (@NFLCanada) November 4, 2022
John Metchie III’s former Alabama teammate, @DeVontaSmith_6, showed him some love during last night’s @Eagles vs. @HoustonTexans game. ❤️ pic.twitter.com/r4VylqrM9J
Houston Texans Forgotten Rookie: John Metchie III
Metchie is able off the line quickly, having opposing defensive backs struggling to keep up with the smooth receiver who creates space himself. With his elite-level footwork, he will be a tough challenge for opposing defenses.
With Brandin Cooks’ uncertainty, the Texans may have to rely on the rest of the receiving core. Nico Collins has broken out to become the number one receiver for the team and looks like a potential star in the making with his size and contested catch ability.
Metchie will fit in perfectly as an all-around receiver who is quick in the slot and able to make enough space to bring in challenging catches. Thankfully, he has been around the team since completing his chemo treatments, allowing him to learn and improve his understanding of the offense.
The Houston Texans desperately need some offensive talent. With the news surrounding Cooks, even with his recently signed contract, the Texans will most likely want to acquire a solid receiver in the upcoming NFL draft with all their draft capital. But Once Metchie steps on the field, fans’ concerns will diminish.