John Metchie discusses relationship with Texans, Lovie Smith

The Houston Texans drafted former Alabama wide receiver John Metchie on Day Two of the 2022 NFL Draft, providing head coach Lovie Smith with an offense weapon to play alongside Brandin Cooks as the team evaluates where it must rebuild using the many draft picks it holds.

During his introductory press conference, John Metchie spoke about the relationship he has developed with Texans head coach Lovie Smith and the rest of the staff throughout the draft process.

“I think Houston was my first visit,” said Metchie. “I had a lot of visits, but I think Houston was my very first visit, so I guess that says something. … I think it’s just somewhere I’ll thrive under coach Lovie Smith and coach (Pep) Hamilton. I get along really well with them and I can’t wait to actually get to do the football part with them.”

Coming into college, he ranked as a four-star recruit and the No. 286 overall prospect in the On3 Consensus. He also ranked No. 46 among wide receivers and No. 6 in the state of New Jersey, where he attended high school after moving from Canada, by way of Taiwan and Ghana.

In 2020, Metchie totaled 55 receptions for 916 yards and six touchdowns, averaging 16.7 yards per catch. This past season, he erupted for 96 receptions, 1,142 yards and eight touchdowns, averaging 11.9 yards per reception.

John Metchie reacts to draft selection

The Houston Texans wanted Alabama receiver John Metchie, but holding the No. 68 overall pick, the chance of losing him was too great. Houston sent the No. 68, No. 108 and No. 124 picks to the Cleveland Browns in exchange for No. 44.

“I was just happy, I didn’t really have many words for them,” Metchie said after the selection. “I was just happy and excited. Had a great time on my visit to Houston and I’m just extremely excited to get there.”

The Texans made a big move for the former Tide star despite him being in the middle of his recovery from a late season ACL tear, which suffered in the SEC championship game.

“I feel great in that department,” Metchie said. “My knee’s been doing really well. I’ve always been ahead of schedule, really ahead of schedule for where I am. I’m just excited, just ready to get back. It’s been doing well, no worries there. No speed bumps or hurdles. So it’s been good.”