The Houston Texans have pulled off a surprise trade, acquiring rising star wide receiver Kayshon Boutte from the New England Patriots in exchange for a 2028 seventh-round pick.
Boutte, who posted a career-high season with the Patriots last year, recorded six touchdowns, 33 catches, and 551 yards. His success rate when targeted was 69.6 percent, second-best in the NFL behind only Puka Nacua.
The Texans lost a big-bodied possession receiver when Jayden Higgins tore his ACL in the preseason, but they've found a replacement at a bargain price. Boutte's addition should help C.J. Stroud, who will now have a new target to rely on in the passing game.
Boutte's role as a downfield sideline threat was usurped by A.J. Brown, but now he's expected to be a fixture in three-wideout sets in Houston. His snaps may be limited as he acclimates to a new offense, but expect him to be a viable third-down target.
Boutte's downfield viability should keep safeties from creeping toward the line of scrimmage, which means fewer stacked boxes bearing down on a restructured offensive line. This could be a significant boost for David Montgomery and Woody Marks.
Meanwhile, Jaylin Noel, the Texans' other Day 2 draftee from 2025, was largely a non-factor as a rookie. He had just a single target in each of his final three games and can safely be ignored until he proves himself in the regular season.
The trade also raises questions about the future of Tank Dell, who was expected to thrive in the space created by downfield targets. However, his ongoing return from a knee injury that ended his 2024 season may be impacted by Boutte's arrival.
Source: Yahoo Sports