The Philadelphia Eagles signed former Alabama receiver John Metchie III to their practice squad, according to multiple reports. The move adds another former Crimson Tide player to an Eagles roster that’s increasingly populated with Alabama alumni.
Metchie becomes the ninth Alabama player on Philadelphia’s roster.
The 24-year-old receiver was recently released by the Houston Texans after missing his rookie season due to a cancer diagnosis. He recorded 40 catches for 412 yards and one touchdown during his time with Houston, including career-best marks of 24 catches and 254 receiving yards in 2024.
Metchie joins a group of Alabama players who’ve found success in Philadelphia. Quarterback Jalen Hurts has led the Eagles to two Super Bowls in three years, winning Super Bowl LVII MVP honors. Wide receiver DeVonta Smith brought his Heisman Trophy credentials to the team and has become a key offensive weapon.
The connection runs deeper than just star players.
Landon Dickerson anchors the offensive line as a starter. The Eagles also drafted linebacker Jihaad Campbell this year, and he’s already expected to compete for a starting role.
At Alabama, Metchie was one of Bryce Young’s primary targets. His most memorable college moment came in the 2021 Iron Bowl against Auburn, when he caught the game-winning 2-point conversion in quadruple overtime.
Houston selected Metchie in the second round of the 2022 NFL Draft. But a cancer diagnosis forced him to miss his entire rookie season, delaying the start of his professional career.
The Eagles offense ranked among the league’s most productive units this season.
Adding Metchie gives Philadelphia another receiving option behind Smith and A.J. Brown. The team’s willingness to continue targeting Alabama players reflects the success they’ve had with Crimson Tide alumni.
Metchie also won an SEC Championship during his college career, adding to the championship pedigree that seems to follow Alabama players to Philadelphia.
The signing represents a fresh start for Metchie, who gets to reunite with former teammates while competing for a roster spot with the defending NFC champions.
