Who Should I Start? John Metchie III or Jalen Coker


Week 1 Projections

Fant.
Pts.
Rush.
Yds.
Rush
TD
Rec. Rec.
Yds.
Rec
TD
4.9 0.4 0.0 2.0 19.3 0.2

John Metchie III News

John Metchie III Leads Team in Receiving, Builds Momentum Toward WR3 Role

Saturday, August 22, 3:03 AM

Carolina Panthers wide receiver John Metchie III caught six of seven targets for 77 yards in Friday's 34-17 preseason loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars. Metchie showed a strong rapport with backup quarterback Kenny Pickett and led the Panthers in targets, catches, and receiving yards. Xavier Legette (ankle) had his ankle "rolled up on" during Wednesday's practice and did not play Friday, opening an opportunity for Metchie. Legette is also dealing with foot soreness and is day-to-day, according to Panthers head coach Dave Canales. Metchie made the most of Legette's absence with a strong showing. However, he did not get any work with the first-team offense and didn't log his first catch until the second half. Tetairoa McMillan and Jalen Coker are the unquestioned starters and top wideouts for the Panthers. With third-round rookie Chris Brazzell (knee) out for the season, Metchie is battling Legette, Jimmy Horn Jr., and David Moore for Carolina's WR3 gig. If Metchie can win Carolina's WR3 role, he becomes a late-round flier in deep leagues and remains a dynasty stash for now.


Week 1 Projections

Fant.
Pts.
Rush.
Yds.
Rush
TD
Rec. Rec.
Yds.
Rec
TD
9.1 0.2 0.0 3.3 41.1 0.3

Jalen Coker News

Jalen Coker Lining Up for Third-Year Breakout in 2026

Thursday, August 13, 7:39 PM

Carolina Panthers wide receiver Jalen Coker is coming off a stellar finish to the 2025 season after starting on the PUP list with a quad injury. Coker hauled in 33 of 43 targets for 394 yards and three touchdowns in just 11 games, averaging 6.7 half-PPR fantasy points per game. He turned it up late last season, recording 28 receptions for 378 yards and four touchdowns over his final six games. The third-year receiver is looking to emerge even further in 2026, with a fully healthy training camp and preseason. Currently ranked WR52, Coker offers upside as a young, talented receiver with a strong connection to quarterback Bryce Young.


John Metchie III vs. Jalen Coker

Still trying to decide between Metchie III and Coker? Check on the latest news to make sure both players are active and healthy. Our PPR projections show that John Metchie III is projected to score 4.9 points this week while Jalen Coker is projected to score 9.1 points.