The star of the Houston-New York preseason game on Saturday was wide receiver John Metchie. A third-year player from AlabamaMetchie struggled with many problems off the field, most notably a diagnosis of leukemia, but he fought through it and found a way to continue his football career.
Metchie had his big breakthrough for the Texans with six pass catches (seven targets) for 68 yards and a touchdown. Head coach DeMeco Ryans says everyone in Houston is rooting for Metchie and everyone enjoyed watching him play a great game. Teammates were “genuinely excited” for Metchie after everything he’s been through.
“I thought he did a really, really good job today,” Ryans said. “He just caught the football and made some great plays for us. It’s exciting to watch Metchie make plays like that. Nobody gets more excited than his teammates when they see the other receivers and feel their genuine excitement when he makes those plays. The whole team is rooting for him to do well. And he did a really good job today.”
Metchie was a second-round pick of the Texans in 2022. Even before the leukemia diagnosis, there were some obstacles to overcome. A torn ACL in the SEC championship game against Georgia meant that Metchie would miss some time at the start of his rookie season.
Due to his leukemia, Metchie missed the entire 2022 year before making his official NFL debut last season in Week 2 against the Indianapolis Colts. Metchie caught 16 passes for 158 yards in 16 games.
This could be a breakout season for Metchie, joining the Houston Texans’ already highly rated core of receivers. His progress is a prime example of why training camps and even preseason games are important for players looking to improve in the NFL, Ryans said.
“I think that’s why you play these preseason games,” Ryans said. “That’s why you have preseason camps and practices, to see the guys continue to grow, get better and shine when the opportunity presents itself. Metchie had a really nice day today.”
Metchie still has time to impress in the preseason. Next Saturday is a game against the Los Angeles Rams, the last meeting before it becomes official. Houston will open the regular season against the Indianapolis Colts, a key AFC South Division game in Week 1.
Everyone associated with the Texans organization is hoping Metchie can go out there and showcase his talent when the brightest lights are on.
