In a surprising twist this NFL offseason, the Philadelphia Eagles are bringing wide receiver John Metchie III to Philadelphia.
The deal, confirmed by multiple sources, sends Metchie and a sixth-round pick to the Eagles in exchange for tight end Harrison Bryant and a fifth-round selection.
A Comeback Story from Cancer to the NFL
Metchie’s journey to this trade is remarkable.
The Taiwanese-born, Brampton-raised Canadian was drafted by the Houston Texans in 2022 but missed his entire rookie season after being diagnosed with acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL) just months after the draft.
APL is one of the most treatable forms of leukemia, boasting a five-year survival rate between 80 and 90 percent.
Reflecting on his diagnosis at the time, Metchie shared, “I am currently receiving great medical care, am in good spirits and I expect to make a recovery at a later point in time.
My main focus will be on my health and recovery. Thank you for your support—I cannot wait to come back stronger than ever.”
College Glory and NFL Beginnings
Before the NFL, Metchie had an impressive career at the University of Alabama.
He won a national championship in 2020, earned All-SEC second-team honors in 2021, and twice received the Jon Cornish Trophy for being the best Canadian in college football.
His professional career has been steady as he worked his way up the Texans’ depth chart.
In his first active NFL season, Metchie recorded 158 yards on 16 receptions, ranking seventh on the team.
He followed that up in 2024 with 254 yards on 24 catches, including his first career touchdown against the Detroit Lions.
Joining Forces with Familiar Faces in Philadelphia
Philadelphia will reunite Metchie with his former Alabama teammate DeVonta Smith, now a star wideout for the Eagles.
However, the new recruit will need to compete for targets with A.J. Brown, Jahan Dotson, and Johnny Wilson, ensuring the wide receiver room remains competitive.
What This Means for the Eagles’ Offense
Metchie’s addition gives the Eagles another dynamic pass-catcher with a proven ability to overcome adversity.
His story from leukemia to the NFL field is inspiring, and fans will be eager to see how he fits into the Eagles’ high-powered offense.
With Philadelphia looking to strengthen its receiving corps, Metchie’s journey offers both hope and excitement for a team hungry for big plays this season.
