Alabama Standout Metchie Joins Panthers as Offensive Weapon

Former Crimson Tide wide receiver reunites with college QB Bryce Young in Carolina

Mar. 11, 2026 at 9:20pm

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The Carolina Panthers have signed former Alabama wide receiver John Metchie III to a one-year contract. Metchie, who was a top target for quarterback Bryce Young in college, will now join Young again as the Panthers look to bolster their receiving corps.

Why it matters

The addition of Metchie gives the Panthers' offense another talented pass-catcher to complement their top receivers. His chemistry with Young could also help the young quarterback's development as he enters his second NFL season.

The details

Metchie, a former fourth-round pick of the New York Jets, will likely slot in as the Panthers' WR4 behind Tetairoa McMillan, Jalen Coker, and Xavier Legette. The Panthers still believe in Legette, but Metchie's experience and rapport with Young could allow him to move up the depth chart over time.

  • The Panthers signed Metchie to a one-year contract on March 11, 2026.

The players

John Metchie III

A wide receiver who played college football at the University of Alabama, where he was a top target for quarterback Bryce Young.

Bryce Young

The Carolina Panthers' starting quarterback, who played with Metchie at Alabama.

Tetairoa McMillan

The Panthers' top wide receiver on the depth chart.

Jalen Coker

The Panthers' second-string wide receiver.

Xavier Legette

A wide receiver for the Panthers who is currently third on the depth chart.

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What they’re saying

“Bryce Young and John Metchie were teammates at Alabama.”

— Adam Schefter

What’s next

The Panthers will look to integrate Metchie into their offense during the offseason program and training camp, with the goal of him becoming a reliable target for Young in the 2026 season.

The takeaway

The reunion of Bryce Young and John Metchie in Carolina provides the Panthers' offense with another talented weapon and the potential for strong chemistry between the two former Alabama standouts.