Nick Saban pens letter to John Metchie after leukemia diagnosis

Sad news came out of Houston on Sunday, as Texans wide receiver John Metchie was announced he would be battling leukemia. Getting drafted out of Alabama and playing under Nick Saban, the head coach penned a letter to his former player via Twitter.

Saban talked about how Metchie has been able to overcome challenges constantly throughout his life and will do the same after his diagnosis. He complimented both the city of Houston and their NFL franchise, saying the medical care will help the wide receiver win his battle.

“John has overcome every challenge placed in front of him in his life with toughness and determination, and we are behind him every step of the way in his fight against leukemia,” Saban said. “It’s a blessing he’s in a city known for great medical care and with an organization, in the Houston Texans, who will be with him throughout the journey. Our thoughts and prayers will remain with him throughout the battle.”

Metchie spent three seasons with Saban in Tuscaloosa but truly broke out during the 2021 season. He was behind four future first-round wide receivers and when given the chance this year, Metchie stepped up to the plate and performed. He finished with 1,142 receiving yards and eight touchdowns on 96 receptions.

More on John Metchie, leukemia diagnosis

Heartbreaking news has just dropped out of the NFL. In a statement posted on Twitter Sunday afternoon, Houston Texans rookie wide receiver John Metchie III revealed that he has been diagnosed with APL, a form of Leukemia.

“Recently I was diagnosed with APL (Acute Promyelocytic Leukemia), the most curable form of Leukemia,” Metchie wrote in a statement. “I am currently receiving great medical care, am in good spirits and I expect to make a recovery at a later point in time.”

Unfortunately, this news will result in Metchie missing his rookie season in the NFL. Instead, he will shift his attention towards his recovery, and he plans on coming back even stronger in the future.

“As a result of this diagnosis, I will likely not be playing football this season,” added Metchie. “My main focus will be on my health and recovery. Thank you in advance for you support and well-wishes. I cannot wait to come back stronger than ever. God bless.”

Metchie was selected in the second round of the 2022 NFL Draft out of Alabama.