Houston Texans wide receiver John Metchie III announced Sunday that he has been diagnosed with a form of leukemia and likely won’t play this season.
“I was recently diagnosed with APL (acute promyelocytic leukemia), the most curable form of leukemia,” Metchie said in a statement released by the Texans.
“I am currently receiving great medical attention, I am in good spirits and I hope to recover later. As a result of this diagnosis, it is likely that I will not play football this season. My main focus will be on my health and recovery. Thank you in advance for your support and well wishes. I can’t wait to come back stronger than ever. God bless.”
The Texans traded up in the second round, sending three picks to the Cleveland Browns, to select Metchie 44th overall in the 2022 draft.
Metchie had 96 catches for 1,142 yards and eight touchdowns last season at Alabama before tearing his ACL in the SEC Championship Game in December. Before that diagnosis, he had said he hoped to be ready for training camp.