A NFL Scout Prefers John Metchie III Over Smith And Waddle

Former Alabama wide receivers Jaylen Waddle and DeVonta Smith both heard their named called in the top 10 in last weeks NFL Draft. Waddle was selected No. 6 overall to the Miami Dolphins and Smith went No. 10 to the Philadelphia Eagles. Marking the second consecutive year two Alabama wide receivers were selected in the top 15 picks in the same draft.

However, a NFL scout told ESPN NFL draft analyst Matt Miller that he considers John Metchie III a better prospect than Waddle and Smith.

As a sophomore in 2020, Metchie reeled in 55 receptions for 916 yards and six touchdowns. Metchie's breakout performance came in Alabama's second game of the season against Texas A&M. He caught five passes for 181 yards and two touchdowns and earned offensive player of the week recognition from the Tide coaches.

Get our free mobile app

After Jaylen Waddle went down with an ankle injury against Tennessee, Metchie moved into the No. 2 receiver role in the Tide's offense. In that game, he caught seven passes for 151 yards, six of his catches went for a first down.

Metchie also played a major role in Alabama's 52-24 win over Ohio State in the national championship, registering eight receptions for 81 yards.

Metchie came to Tuscaloosa as a four-star recruit in the 2019 recruiting cycle according to all major outlets. He appeared in all 13 games as a freshman in a reserve role. The Canada native registered four receptions for 23 yards.

With the departure of Smith and Waddle, Metchie will move into the No. 1 wide receiver role. He will have to adjust to new quarterback Bryce Young this season.