The Houston Texans have finalized a trade to acquire wide receiver Kayshon Boutte from the New England Patriots. In exchange, the Texans provided New England with a seventh-round draft pick and safety Jayden Reed. This move follows the injury to second-year receiver Jayden Higgins, who sustained a torn ACL during practice.
Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans commented on the trade after a joint practice with the Carolina Panthers, emphasizing Boutte's potential to enhance the team's offense. Ryans described the addition of Boutte as significant, particularly given Higgins' absence. He highlighted Boutte's playmaking ability and his previous experiences against the Texans.
Boutte, selected in the sixth round of the 2023 NFL Draft, has shown consistent performance throughout his tenure with the Patriots. During the 2025 season, he achieved 33 receptions, totaling 551 yards and six touchdowns, which played a role in the Patriots' Super Bowl run.
This season marked his second straight year with more than 30 receptions and 500 yards, while also increasing his touchdown total from the previous year.
The Texans aim to fill the gap left by Higgins with Boutte, who is anticipated to work alongside Nico Collins as an outside receiver capable of making impactful plays. Ryans expressed hope for Boutte's growth, noting his youth and potential for further development. Details regarding Boutte's role in the Texans' system and his performance in forthcoming games remain to be seen.
