In unfortunate news, before he was ever able to take a step on a professional football field, Houston Texans rookie wide receiver John Metchie III’s career has been delayed.
On Sunday, he announced that he has been diagnosed with leukemia and will probably not be able to play this entire season.
Metchie, 22, was drafted in the second round by the Texans this year and was placed on the non-football injury list after the announcement.
In a statement posted on the Texans’ Twitter account, Metchie says he is getting treatment for acute promyelocytic leukemia, “the most curable form,” and expects “to make a recovery at a later point in time.”
“Recently I was diagnosed with APL (Acute Promyelocytic Leukemia), the most curable form of Leukemia,” the statement read. “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.”
An update from John Metchie lll pic.twitter.com/EH6OupXK42
— Houston Texans (@HoustonTexans) July 24, 2022
Acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL) is a type of blood cancer that typically occurs in middle-aged individuals, typically around the age of 40, and has an 88% survival rate. It affects between 600 and 800 Americans every year and is more likely in Hispanics and less likely in African American ethnic groups.
While it is possible that Metchie could return to the field within the season, APL typically requires an aggressive treatment, which would make an extended time away from football more likely.
“As a result of this diagnosis, I will likely not be playing football this season,” he said. “My main focus will be on my health and recovery.”
Metchie went 44th in the first round of this year’s NFL draft out of Alabama, where he had 96 receptions for 1,142 yards and eight touchdowns last season for the Crimson Tide.
The deal reportedly would sign Metchie to an $8.07 million four-year contract with a $3.049 million signing bonus.
Metchie’s announcement received an overwhelming number of sports community members offering prayer and support for his recovery.
“Prayers from the heart to one of the toughest guys I know,” Josh Gattis, the University of Miami offensive coordinator, said on Twitter. “Someone that has sacrificed so much will always continue to overcome obstacles ahead! You are Strong!”
ESPN senior writer Ryan McGee said it’s “impossible not to like this guy if you’ve ever met him.”
“All the best to Metch during his fight and recovery,” he said.
Nick Saban, football coach at the University of Alabama, said the team would stand behind Metchie every step in his fight against leukemia.
“John has overcome every challenge placed in front of him in his life with toughness and determination,” Saban said. “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,” he added.
Metchie extended his appreciation for the support and well-wishes from his fans and community.
“I cannot wait to come back stronger than ever,” he said. “God bless.”
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