Introduction
John Metchie III’s story is one of raw talent, resilience, and the perseverance to overcome the odds. From dominating in college football at Alabama, battling leukemia, to making waves in the NFL and even earning a spot on the Madden video game rosters — his journey offers inspiration on and off the field.
1. 40-Yard Dash Time: Who Is This Speedster?
Prior to being drafted in 2022, John Metchie clocked an impressive 40-yard dash time of 4.48 seconds at his pro day or combine-type drill. This showcases his elite acceleration and burst — traits that put him in a competitive percentile among wide receivers entering the NFL.
2. Wrestling With Cancer: Acute Promyelocytic Leukemia
Drafted in the second round (44th overall) by the Houston Texans in 2022, Metchie’s rookie season took an unexpected turn when he was diagnosed with acute promyelocytic leukemia. Despite such adversity, he underwent treatment and returned to the field a year later — a testament to his resilience. For his courage and return, he was honored with the 2024 George Halas Award by the Pro Football Writers of America .
3. College Career: Statistical Highlights at Alabama
John Metchie’s college stats reflect a player ascending quickly each year:
| Season | Receptions | Yards | Avg | Long | TDs |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2019 (Freshman) | 4 | 23 | 5.8 | 17 | 0 |
| 2020 (Sophomore) | 55 | 916 | 16.7 | 78 | 6 |
| 2021 (Junior) | 96 | 1,142 | 11.9 | 46 | 8 |
| Career Total | 155 | 2,081 | 13.4 | 78 | 14 |
He notably won the Jon Cornish Trophy—awarded to the top Canadian in NCAA football—twice (2020, 2021). His junior year was truncated by a torn ACL in the SEC Championship Game.
4. Madden NFL Rating: How Does the Virtual John Stack Up?
Madden NFL 26 rates John Metchie with an overall rating of 74. His key attributes include:
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Acceleration: 92
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Speed: 90
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Agility: 87
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Catching / Spectacular Catch / Catch in Traffic: 79 each.
His General Speed and Acceleration in Madden reflect real-world traits — quick coverage separation and initial burst. The Madden 25 rating was also 74 OVR.
5. NFL Comeback and Career Stats
After missing 2022 due to leukemia, Metchie returned in 2023 and recorded:
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2023 season: 16 receptions, 158 yards.
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2024 season: 24 receptions, 254 yards, and 1 touchdown.
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Total NFL (as of end 2024): 40 receptions, 415 yards, 1 TD.
His professional journey underscores the bridge between health adversity and athletic excellence.
6. Evolution: College Star to NFL Resilient Performer
From brimming college stats to confronting leukemia, John Metchie’s path highlights unwavering resolve. Despite losing a season, he returned, contributed steadily, and was rewarded with a 2024 George Halas Award for overcoming adversity. His Madden rating captures solid foundational skills, with video game attributes mirroring his real abilities. John Metchie 40 time.
FAQs
1. What is John Metchie’s recorded 40-yard dash time?
He ran 4.48 seconds, measured at his pro day or similar combine event.
2. What form of cancer did John Metchie battle?
He was diagnosed with acute promyelocytic leukemia, forcing him to miss his entire rookie NFL season.
3. How did Metchie perform in college at Alabama?
He totaled 155 receptions for 2,081 yards and 14 touchdowns across three seasons (2019–2021). His best year came in 2021 with 1,142 yards and 8 TDs, despite his season ending with a torn ACL.
4. What is his Madden NFL rating?
In Madden NFL 26, he is rated 74 overall, with standout attributes in Acceleration (92) and Catching skills (79). His Madden 25 rating was also 74.
5. What are his NFL career stats after returning from cancer?
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2023: 16 receptions, 158 yards
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2024: 24 receptions, 254 yards, 1 TD
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Career total (through 2024): 40 receptions, 415 yards, 1 TD.
Conclusion
John Metchie III’s story is one of raw athleticism (4.48-second 40-yard dash), collegiate excellence (2,081 receiving yards at Alabama), and incredible strength in adversity (beating leukemia and earning the 2024 George Halas Award). His Madden rating of 74 reflects both his physical skills and what fans can anticipate on the field. As he continues his NFL career — now with the Philadelphia Eagles as of August 17, 2025 — his journey remains one to watch and admire.
