The Houston Texans are preparing for their preseason matchup with the Las Vegas Raiders on August 20, facing significant hurdles as they lost wide receiver Jayden Higgins to a torn ACL, which will keep him out for the entire season. This injury is a notable blow to the offensive unit, which is directed by quarterback C.J.
Stroud, who has experienced a decline in performance over the past two years after a strong rookie season.
Despite this setback, Stroud is anticipated to participate in a few series, possibly up to 25 plays, as the team works through uncertainties regarding their offensive line. The first-string offensive line is expected to take the field, while the first-team defense will not play.
With Higgins unavailable, Stroud will rely on wide receiver Nico Collins, who had a successful season previously with 71 catches for 1,117 yards and six touchdowns. Other receivers, such as Tank Dell, Xavier Hutchinson, and Jaylin Noel, will need to elevate their performance in Higgins' absence.
Dell had previously built a strong rapport with Stroud but missed last season due to injury, while Noel, drafted shortly after Higgins, was college teammates with him at Iowa State.
