DeMeco Ryans on John Metchie's breakout preseason game: 'The entire team as a whole is pulling for him to do well'

The star of Saturday’s Houston-New York preseason game was wide receiver John Metchie. A third-year player out of Alabama, Metchie has dealt with a lot of off-the-field issues, mainly being diagnosed with leukemia. But he has battled through and found a way to continue his football career.

Metchie fully broke out for the Texans with six receptions (seven targets) for 68 yards and a touchdown. Head coach DeMeco Ryans says everybody in Houston is pulling for Metchie and all enjoyed watching him have a big game. Teammates had “genuine excitement” for Metchie after all he’s been through.

“I think he did a really, really nice job today,” Ryans said. “Just catching the football, making some big-time plays for us. It’s exciting to see Metchie make those types of plays. Nobody is more fired up than his teammates to see the other receivers and see their genuine excitement when he makes those plays. The entire team, as a whole, is pulling for him to do well. And he did a really nice job today.

Metchie was a second-round pick of the Texans back in 2022. Even before the leukemia diagnosis, there would be some obstacles to overcome. A torn ACL in the SEC Championship game against Georgia meant Metchie would miss time at the beginning of his rookie season.

While battling leukemia, Metchie missed all of 2022 before making his official NFL debut Week 2 against the Indianapolis Colts last season. Metchie caught 16 passes for 158 yards while playing in 16 games.

This could be a season where Metchie fully breaks out and joins the already highly rated Houston Texans receiving core. His progress is a prime example of why training camp, and even preseason games, are important for players looking to improve in the NFL according to Ryans.

“That’s why I think you play these preseason games,” Ryans said. “That’s why you have preseason training camp, practices, to see guys continue to grow, get better, and shine when the opportunity comes. Metchie had a really nice day today.”

Metchie still has time to impress throughout the preseason. Next Saturday will see a contest against the Los Angeles Rams, the final matchup before things become official. Houston will open the regular season up against the Indianapolis Colts, a key AFC South divisional game in Week 1.

Everybody involved with the Texans organization is hoping Metchie can go out there and showcase his talents when the brightest of lights are on.