John Metchie III Shines as Texans’ Receiver Competition Heats Up

The Houston Texans entered the offseason with questions about their wide receiver depth behind star Nico Collins. In Saturday’s preseason opener against the Vikings, former second-round pick John Metchie III made a strong case for more playing time.

Metchie led Houston with five catches on eight targets for 45 yards in the Texans’ 20-10 loss, showing the kind of consistency coach DeMeco Ryans is eager to see.

“All our receivers did a really nice job. John Metchie showed up,” Ryans said, via Aaron Wilson of KPRC 2 Houston. “We’ve got a really full room of guys who can play in the NFL, so it’s tight competition going down to the wire.”

Metchie, who missed his entire rookie season due to leukemia, has been quietly working to regain his footing. In 29 career games, he has 40 catches for 412 yards and one touchdown — numbers that don’t tell the whole story of his potential.

With the Texans adding Jayden Higgins, Jaylin Noel, trading for Christian Kirk, and signing Justin Watson, Metchie’s spot wasn’t a lock, especially with Tank Dell potentially out for the season. That’s why his preseason performance is a big positive.

“It was good to get out there and play against somebody else,” Metchie said. “It’s more of a process than just a single day… it’s about showing up every day and being consistent.”

Metchie also praised the competitive yet supportive culture in Houston’s receiver room.

“Everybody brings their best every day and we all uplift each other. On days you’re not feeling it, the guys will uplift you. That’s our culture. We band together.”

Versatility is Metchie’s key asset. Against the Vikings, he lined up for 19 snaps wide and 12 in the slot, giving him multiple paths to earn meaningful snaps this season.

As the Texans’ receiver battle tightens, performances like Metchie’s could tip the scales.