We thought John Metchie III was headed for a brighter future after the Houston Texans selected the star Alabama receiver in the second round of the 2022 NFL Draft (44th overall selection).
Metchie was slicing up defenses all season for the Crimson Tide before tearing his ACL in the SEC Championship Game against Georgia in 2021.
It was a devastating injury, one that pushed him from first-round pick to possible second-round player.
Then the Texans selected him and everyone rejoyced.
But over the weekend, Metchie revealed some more bad news.
He had leukemia.
“Recently I was diagnosed with APL (Acute Promyelocytic Leukemia), the most curable form of Leukemia,” said Metchie in a statement the Texans tweeted out. “I am currently receiving great medical care, am in good spirits and I expect to make a recovery at a later point in time. As a result of this diagnosis, I will likely not be playing football this season.
“My main focus will be on my health and recovery. Thank you in advance for your support and well wishes. I cannot wait to come back stronger than ever. God bless.”
It was a devastating blow for Metchie and all those who celebrated his return from the ACL injury.
But now his return will be delayed at least a year as he battles a new, more serious health condition.
Yet he also disclosed some good news in that he had Acute Promyselocytic Leukemia (APL), which, according to Metchie, is the “most curable form of Leukemia.”
After revealing his diagnosis, the Texans announced later on Sunday that they placed Metchie on the active/non-football illness list.
Yet everyone is in the corner of the Ontario, Canada native, including his college coach, Nick Saban.
“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,” Crimson Tide coach Nick Saban said Sunday in a statement. “It’s a blessing that he is in a city known for great medical care and with an organization, in the Houston Texans, who will be with him throughout this journey. Our thoughts and prayers will remain with him throughout this battle.”
We wish the best to John Metchie III. Get better soon!
