The Houston Texans have made a notable trade, acquiring 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, will join the Texans as they aim to regain the AFC South title, currently held by the Jacksonville Jaguars. This move comes after Texans wide receiver Jayden Higgins suffered a season-ending knee injury during a practice session with the Raiders on August 19.
Higgins had a solid rookie year, recording 41 receptions for 525 yards and six touchdowns. His injury has prompted the Texans to seek additional support behind Pro Bowler Nico Collins. During his tenure with the Patriots, Boutte played in 29 games over two seasons, accumulating over 500 receiving yards each year.
He contributed to the team's success with three touchdown catches in 2024 and six in 2025, aiding the Patriots in their AFC title win and Super Bowl 60 appearance. However, his role diminished this offseason after the Patriots acquired AJ Brown and signed Romeo Doubs.
Details about how this trade will impact the Texans' upcoming season remain unclear.