Ranking Jaguars top 5 wide receiver targets on Day 2 of the 2022 draft
Jaguars’ Day 2 Option No. 4 – John Metchie III, Alabama
John Metchie was being projected as a potential first-round pick, but as the draft draws near, the Jaguars might be able to take him with the opening pick on Day 2. Is he worthy of such a high selection? Well, if the Jaguars want a polished route-runner with notable size and solid speed, I’d say yes. Back in 2020, Metchie was eighth in the SEC with an average of 16.7 yards per reception. Even if you’re not big on college production, the fact that Metchie was in the top 10 for yards from scrimmage in his conference in back-to-back seasons (2020 and 2021) is remarkable.
He’s not the fastest receiver out of this year’s class, but he makes up for it with his physicality. He can break and wiggle his way out of tackles, using his body effectively; he is a truly elusive player.
Nobody told me John Metchie was this smooth.
— Daire Carragher (@DaireCarragher) April 9, 2022
Not the most exceptional athlete but there’s barely a hole in his game.
Day 1 starter. pic.twitter.com/ddkG2WO9ie
Though he lacks the speed you want out of your number one wideout, Metchie is dangerous once he’s in the open field and can shift easily with his noteworthy movement. Metchie isn’t afraid of contact either, he’ll go up and make those contested catches and boasts some of the best hands in this receiver class. If he’s healthy and fully recovered from his ACL tear, he can be a starter from Day 1.