The Houston Texans have bolstered their roster by trading for wide receiver Kayshon Boutte from the New England Patriots. In return, the Texans have given up safety Jaylen Reed along with a seventh-round selection in the 2028 NFL Draft.
Boutte, a sixth-round pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, joins the Texans as they aim to take back the AFC South title from the Jacksonville Jaguars. This trade comes after Texans receiver Jayden Higgins sustained a torn ACL during a joint practice with the Raiders on August 19, which will keep him out for the entire season.
Higgins had a strong rookie year, making 41 receptions for 525 yards and scoring six touchdowns. With his absence, the Texans are looking to add depth behind Pro Bowler Nico Collins. During his tenure with the Patriots, Boutte participated in 29 games over two seasons, achieving over 500 receiving yards each year.
He scored three touchdowns in 2024 and six in 2025, playing a key role in the Patriots' AFC title win and their appearance in Super Bowl 60. However, his position diminished this offseason due to the Patriots acquiring AJ Brown and signing Romeo Doubs.
Details about the trade's impact on the Texans' upcoming season remain to be fully disclosed.
