The Houston Texans have finalized a trade to bring wide receiver Kayshon Boutte from the New England Patriots. In exchange, the Texans sent a seventh-round draft pick along with safety Jayden Reed to New England. This move follows the recent injury to second-year receiver Jayden Higgins, who is out for the season due to a torn ACL sustained in practice.
Head coach DeMeco Ryans addressed the trade after a joint practice with the Carolina Panthers, emphasizing Boutte's potential to enhance the team's offensive capabilities. Ryans remarked on the significance of adding Boutte, especially given Higgins' absence, stating, "Adding Kayshon is a big get for us." He highlighted Boutte's experience against the Texans in previous games and his ability to make impactful plays.
Boutte, drafted in the sixth round of the 2023 NFL Draft, has shown reliable performance during his tenure with the Patriots. In the 2025 season, he achieved 33 catches for 551 yards and six touchdowns, playing a key role in the Patriots' Super Bowl run.
This achievement marked his second straight season with more than 30 receptions and 500 receiving yards, as well as a significant increase in his touchdown tally from the prior year.
The Texans aim to fill Higgins' role with Boutte, who is expected to work alongside Nico Collins as a capable outside receiver for downfield plays. Ryans expressed hope for Boutte's development, noting his youth and potential for growth. The specifics of Boutte's integration into the Texans' offense and his performance in future games remain to be seen.
