Houston Texans WR John Metchie III diagnosed with leukemia

John Metchie III, a rookie wide receiver for the Houston Texans, has been given a cancer diagnosis.

John Metchie III, a rookie wide receiver for the Houston Texans, said on Sunday that he has a type of leukemia and likely won’t play this season.

Metchie stated in a statement that was distributed by the Texans that he had recently been given the diagnosis of Acute Promyelocytic Leukemia (APL), which is the most treatable form of Leukemia.

“I am now receiving excellent medical treatment, I am in a good mood, and I anticipate making a full recovery at some point in the not too distant future. Because of this diagnosis, it is quite unlikely that I will be participating in this season’s football games. My health and my continued recovery will be my first concern. I would like to express my gratitude in advance for your assistance and best wishes. I can’t wait to make a comeback that is even more powerful than before. Thank you, God.”

In the 2022 NFL Draft, the Texans selected Metchie 44th overall after trading up in the second round and giving the Cleveland Browns three of their own draft picks in exchange.

Before tearing his anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in Alabama’s game for the SEC title in December, Metchie finished the previous season with 96 receptions for 1,142 yards and eight touchdowns. Prior to receiving this diagnosis, he had indicated that he anticipated being prepared for training camp.