Nick Saban joined football fans around the country in showing support for John Metchie III, the former Alabama wide receiver now playing for the Houston Texans who announced on Sunday he was diagnosed with leukemia.

“John has overcome every obstacle placed in front of him in his life with toughness and determination, and we are behind him every step of the way in his fight against leukemia,” Saban said in a statement. “It’s a blessing that he’s in a city known for great medical care, and with an organization in the Houston Texans who will be with him throughout this journey. Our thoughts and prayers will be with him throughout this battle.”

Metchie was a notable player for the Alabama offense in recent years.

He was drafted in the second round after the Texans traded up and sent 3 picks to the Cleveland Browns, to select Metchie 44th overall in the 2022 draft.

Metchie had 96 catches for 1,142 yards and 8 touchdowns last season at Alabama before he tore his ACL in the SEC championship game in December. Before this announcement, he had said he expected to be ready for training camp.

Before that injury, Metchie made 155 receptions for his career to rank seventh in program history, and he earned All-SEC Second Team honors from both the Associated Press and conference coaches.