The Houston Texans have enhanced their roster by acquiring wide receiver Kayshon Boutte from the New England Patriots. In return, the Texans sent safety Jaylen Reed along with a seventh-round pick in the 2028 NFL Draft to New England.
Boutte, a sixth-round pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, joins the Texans amid a need for depth following the season-ending injury of wide receiver Jayden Higgins, who suffered a torn ACL during a practice on August 19. Higgins had a strong rookie season, catching 41 passes for 525 yards and six touchdowns, but will now focus on his recovery.
During his tenure with the Patriots, Boutte participated in 29 games over two seasons, achieving over 500 receiving yards each year. He recorded three touchdown receptions in 2024 and six in 2025, contributing to the Patriots' AFC title and their appearance in Super Bowl 60. However, his playing time decreased this offseason with the addition of AJ Brown and Romeo Doubs to the Patriots' roster.
The trade occurs as the Texans continue to support quarterback CJ Stroud, who has faced criticism following a tough playoff showing. Despite this, the Texans maintain confidence in Stroud's abilities as their franchise quarterback. Further details regarding the trade's impact on the Texans' season are still pending.
