3 WRs the Detroit Lions need to consider drafting in the first round
By Bob Heyrman
![(Photo by Sean M. Haffey/Getty Images) (Photo by Sean M. Haffey/Getty Images)](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/shape/cover/sport/727894cd2190337c4cd9786b1de6e531e4d7722c0c9947dadd50adf526fd36a9.jpg)
The Detroit Lions need to consider drafting John Metchie III.
Unfortunately, John Metchie III suffered a season-ending torn ACL in Alabama’s SEC championship game against rival Georgia.
Metchie is a junior, and if he elects to enter the NFL Draft, he will perhaps be the second Alabama receiver drafted in the first round. I expect Jameson Williams to be a top-15 pick. The Crimson Tide is not only a receiver factory but also a linebacker, quarterback, offensive, and defensive line factory. Nick Saban runs a great program with a roster littered with future NFL talent year after year.
Metchie is a genuine deep-threat and precisely what the Detroit Lions need. If not for the torn ACL, I am not certain Metchie would be available when the Detroit Lions are on the board with their second first-round pick. Metchie doesn’t just possess straight-line speed; he’s a crafty route runner and a dynamic playmaker.
The Alabama product can line up in the backfield in a similar fashion to Jaylen Waddle or Deebo Samuel to serve as a decoy or take the handoff. Samuel is certainly more physically imposing than Waddle or Metchie, but the latter can bust through the line and utilize their break-away speed and take a handoff to the house.
Double coverage? No problem for Metchie.
Alabama takes the lead 🔴⚪️
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) December 4, 2021
John Metchie makes the grab for 6
(via @CBSSports)
pic.twitter.com/YaEBbCH2Gj
In his junior season, Metchie recorded 96 receptions totaling 1,142 yards and eight receiving touchdowns; that’s good for an 11.9 average. The previous season Metchie averaged 16.7 yards per catch, hauling in 55 of his targets for 916 yards and six touchdowns.
Next. 3 QBs to consider bringing in next season. dark
Metchie earned an overall grade of 78.2 according to Pro Football Focus for his work in 2021.