Jaguars might need to target WR John Metchie in Round 2 of the NFL Draft

Alabama’s John Metchie was the first and one of the few wide-receiver prospects that the Jacksonville Jaguars hosted during the pre-draft process. If they are interested in selecting him, they might need to do it in the second round.

Mike Giardi of NFL Media reports that multiple executives around the league believe Metchie won’t make it out of Round 2. The wide receiver tore his ACL during the SEC Championship Game but seems to be doing well in his recovery — almost like an Adrian Peterson recovery — according to an offensive coach.

Metchie is rehabbing and training with fellow Crimson Tide wide receiver Jameson Williams, who is also coming off a torn ACL, per James Palmer of NFL Media. They’re pushing one other and helping each other.

Before tearing his ACL last season, Metchie hauled in 96 receptions for 1,142 yards with eight touchdowns. For his efforts, he was named All-SEC Second-Team. The year before, he caught 55 passes for 916 yards and six touchdowns. It’s uncertain when Metchie will be able to practice but if the Jags feel comfortable about the timeline of his recovery, they might need to target him in the second round or else run the risk of missing out on him.

The Jaguars might want to address other positions in Round 2.

General manager Trent Baalke said during the team’s pre-draft conference that he hoped ‘need’ and ‘best player’ came together but wouldn’t be opposed to making a room stronger. If that’s the case, the Jaguars won’t mind taking Metchie in the second round despite the fact that they signed Christian Kirk and Zay Jones in free agency.

Having said that, the Jaguars might want to address other positions with their second-round pick, the 33rd overall. In fact, there are different paths they could take. They could take a center such as Cam Jurgens or Tyler Linderbaum. Another possibility is taking a linebacker and if that’s the case, Georgia’s Quay Walker might be someone they’re interested in.

The Jaguars need as many playmakers as they can get their hands on in the draft and if they think Metchie could come in and contribute, they shouldn’t hesitate to get him at No. 33. Then again, they might have their fair share of talented prospects to choose from, so it wouldn’t be shocking if they decide to take someone else.