The Houston Texans have completed a trade to acquire 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 injury of second-year receiver Jayden Higgins, who sustained a torn ACL during practice.
Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans addressed the trade after a joint practice with the Carolina Panthers, emphasizing Boutte's potential to enhance the team's offense. Ryans remarked that adding Boutte is a significant move, particularly due to Higgins' injury. He highlighted Boutte's capability to make impactful plays 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 for 551 yards and six touchdowns, playing a role in the Patriots' Super Bowl run.
This season marked his second year in a row with over 30 catches and 500 yards, while also increasing his touchdown total.
The Texans aim to fill the gap left by Higgins with Boutte, who is anticipated to work alongside Nico Collins as a key outside receiver. Ryans expressed confidence in Boutte's growth potential, noting that he is still young and has room for development. The Texans hope that Boutte's established track record and motivation in a contract year will bolster their passing game this season.
