NFL: AFC Championship Game-New England Patriots at Denver Broncos
Jan 25, 2026; Denver, CO, USA; New England Patriots wide receiver Kayshon Boutte (9)) practices before the 2026 AFC Championship Game at Empower Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images Credit: IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect (Reuters)
The Houston Texans are hoping to bulk up their wide receiver group after Jayden Higgins’ season-ending knee injury.
Houston boasts significant Super Bowl aspirations entering the 2026 NFL season. However, the Texans offense certainly needs a spark based on serious questions at receiver.
Tom Pelissero reveals that the New England Patriots are sending fourth-year wideout Kayshon Boutte to the Texans just weeks before the regular season kicks off. In three seasons with the Patriots, Boutte recorded over 1159 yards and nine touchdowns.
Meanwhile, Boutte’s departure sends safety Jaylen Reed and a future draft pick back to the Patriots.
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Texans land former SEC star receiver
NFL: Super Bowl LX-Seattle Seahawks at New England Patriots
New England Patriots wide receiver Kayshon Boutte (9) against the Seattle Seahawks during Super Bowl LX at Levi’s Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images Credit: IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect (Reuters)
DeMeco Ryans’ team boasts an elite no. 1 option with Nico Collins, but the Texans are now adding another pass-catching weapon after making a trade with the New England Patriots.
Houston receives a high-upside receiver at a time where the Texans offense needs to perform. Last season, Houston’s defense was truly elite en route to making a playoff run that ended in New England.
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Boutte proved to be a massive threat at LSU during his college football career. That includes one of the greatest single-game performances in SEC history when he posted 308 yards against Ole Miss in 2020.
Trade! The Patriots are sending WR Kayshon Boutte to the Texans for safety Jaylen Reed and a draft pick, sources tell @ringer @netflixsports. pic.twitter.com/NZXCdOX4RT
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) August 24, 2026
However, Ryans and Co. need more on offense as C.J. Stroud reportedly eyes up a massive contract extension. The Texans currently feature other wideout options like Tank Dell and Jaylin Joel, which gives Boutte a major chance at contributing this season.
The Texans open the 2026 NFL season against the Buffalo Bills. Both AFC teams are viewed as serious Super Bowl contenders, making Week 1’s meeting more important.