Canadian wide receiver John Metchie III is set to make his NFL debut after missing all of last season due to a battle with leukemia and a torn knee ligament sustained in his last college game with Alabama.
The 2022 2nd round pick of the Houston Texans says he feels “110 percent.”
“I feel better than I did in my college days,” the Taiwan-born Canadian said Thursday. I feel better than before my cancer diagnosis, so 110% for sure. »
After battling a fresh thigh injury recently, Metchie III was cleared to attend training camp.
“I’m really grateful to be here and to be able to play the sport I love without worry. The past year has been eventful. There have been ups and downs, but I’m happy to be back on the pitch. It’s been a long road, but it’s a blessing to be back. »
With Alabama, Metchie III became a star in one of the most prestigious football programs in the United States. In his last two seasons with the Crimson Tide, Metchie generated 2,058 yards, especially on his ability to gain yards after the catch, in addition to scoring 14 touchdowns.
“Metchie’s attitude hasn’t changed,” Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans said Thursday. He is the same. He is consistent. He is positive. He is a hard worker. Every time he’s here in training, he gives his all. After training, he is seen putting in extra effort. He tries to perfect his art. So I’m delighted with his mentality and his work ethic. That’s nice to look at. »
It remains difficult to predict Metchie’s performance next season, as he hasn’t played a single game in nearly 20 months. In a receiving group of Nico Collins, veteran Robert Woods, former Cowboys Noah Brown, third-round pick Tank Dell and 6th-round draft pick Xavier Hutchinson, Metchie could quickly climb the ranks within the Texan attack.
“I feel like I’ve won the toughest battle, and now living and being me is kind of about being free and having faith in myself, in my work, and in who I am,” said Metchie. Sure, there’s a learning curve from games, developing chemistry with offense and everything else, but as far as confidence in myself and my game goes, I’ve got it completely. . »
Metchie doesn’t even know who will throw the balls to him at the start of the season. CJ Stroud, drafted 2nd overall in the last draft, is competing with veteran Davis Mills for the starting job.
The Texans begin their preseason schedule Thursday, August 10 against the Patriots in New England.
2023-08-03 18:48:00
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