The Houston Texans need a proven wide receiver after the season-ending injury suffered by second-year receiver Jayden Higgins.
The Texans have reportedly set their sights on Patriots wide receiver Kayshon Boutte, a 24-year-old who had a promising season last year as the No. 2 target for Drake Maye.
Boutte caught 33 passes for 551 yards and a career-high 6 touchdowns, including a game-sealing touchdown reception in the divisional round playoff win over the Texans. His performance makes sense as a potential trade candidate for the Texans.
However, the Patriots added A.J. Brown and Romeo Doubs in free agency and trades this offseason, giving each top money. This likely reduces Boutte's exposure in the offense and makes him a name worth discussing via the trade markets.
The Texans must make a move before Week 1 to upgrade the receiver room. Higgins was expected to be the next big name for the Texans' passing attack after cruising through training camp as the breakout star.
New England should be willing to move Boutte, but it seems unlikely it'd make an in-conference trade for a player who could help a fellow contender improve.
The Texans continue their preseason battle on Thursday evening against the Las Vegas Raiders at Reliant Stadium. The game will be locally televised on ABC.
The Texans' general manager, Nick Caserio, may have a history with the Patriots, but it's unclear if that would influence any potential trade.
The Texans are the favorite to win the AFC, largely because of its No. 1-ranked defense and revamped offensive line. Outside of Pro Bowler Nico Collins, there isn't a proven wide receiver with consistent numbers to make Texans' fans feel content.
Tank Dell and Jaylin Noel are expected to be factors in the passing game, but both are still recovering from injuries. Noel has barely practiced all of training camp due to a finger issue and hamstring tightness, while Dell is still working his way back from a freak knee injury in 2024.
The Texans will need to decide whether to part with a high draft pick in order to acquire Boutte. The team has a few days to finalize their plans before the season kicks off.
Source: Yahoo Sports