John Metchie provides injury update, discusses timetable for return

Former Alabama Crimson Tide wide receiver John Metchie III heard his name called early on in the 2022 NFL Draft despite him being in the middle of his recovery from a late season torn ACL. The Houston Texans selected Metchie with the 12th pick in the second round of the draft after trading up.

After being selected by the Texans, Metchie has opened up on his recovery from his knee injury, saying that he is ahead of schedule and feels great.

“Yeah, 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.”

Metchie was a big-time contributor at Alabama. His collegiate career began in 2019, though he had just four receptions as a freshman. In 2020, Metchie totaled 55 receptions for 916 yards and six touchdowns, averaging 16.7 yards per catch. This past season, Metchie erupted for 96 receptions, 1,142 yards and eight touchdowns, averaging 11.9 yards per reception.

Metchie could be in line for a big role in the Texans offense

Last season, the Texans struggled with a lack of weapons on the offensive side of the ball. Wide receiver Brandin Cooks was by far the most valuable player on offense, bringing in 90 receptions on 134 targets for 1,037 yards and six touchdowns. No other receiver on last year’s roster had more than 33 receptions or 446 yards through the air.

While Metchie might not be fully ready to go at the start of the year, he should play a big role in the Texans passing offense once’s he is healthy and ready to go.

The Texans traded up for Metchie, jumping in front of the Baltimore Ravens to take him. NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport broke down why Houston made that deal, adding a positive update on a potential timeline on his return.

“The Houston Texans leapfrogged the Baltimore Ravens to take John Metchie,” Rapoport said. “If you’re wondering why, of course, we know that (Baltimore) traded Hollywood Brown yesterday and they still have not replaced him. If there’s one thing the Ravens love, it’s Alabama players. This is why the Texans jumped them. By the way, Metchie should be ready from that ACL surgery by training camp.”