Houston Texans Position Outlook: Wide Receiver

Throughout this past season, the Texans’ wide receiver group had moments where they delivered — and even more where it felt like they left a lot on the table.

Houston already have their star wideout in Nico Collins. Collins eclipsed 1,100 receiving yards, but it still felt like there were games where he wasn’t involved nearly as much as he should’ve been. Whether that falls on the offensive scheme or C.J. Stroud, the reality is Collins needs to be featured more consistently next season.

After Collins, the production dropped off significantly. The Texans believed Christian Kirk would step into that next role, but he was largely invisible on a weekly basis.

The second-most productive receiver on the roster ended up being rookie Jayden Higgins, who Houston selected in the second round of the 2025 NFL Draft. Higgins is a matchup nightmare for a lot of defensive backs, and he proved he can produce at this level, finishing with over 500 yards and six touchdowns.

Higgins was used sparingly early on, which is typical for a rookie, but his role grew as the season progressed. If he continues on that trajectory, 2026 could be a big year for him — he just needs to be more involved.

Jaylin Noel, a third-round pick in the same draft and Higgins’ former Iowa State teammate, might be the most explosive player on the Texans’ offense. That explosiveness showed up immediately on special teams, where he thrived as the kick returner.

Noel flashed as a receiver as well, but it was clear the coaching staff didn’t feel he was ready for a larger offensive role just yet. That’s not necessarily a bad thing. Development takes time, and Noel consistently made plays when given opportunities. He’ll likely remain the team’s primary kick returner, but he was drafted to do much more — and he could make a real impact next season.

Houston also has solid depth in Xavier Hutchinson, who stepped up when called upon last year. That said, his role is best suited as a depth option moving forward.

The true wildcard in the Texans’ receiver room is Tank Dell, who has suffered multiple season-ending injuries over the past two years. When healthy, Dell can completely reignite the passing attack and bring an element of electricity that few players on the roster can match.

Given his injury history, it’s hard to expect Dell to be available all season. But when he’s on the field, he’s a legitimate game-changer.

Overall, the Texans have a lot of young talent and upside at wide receiver, which makes a major overhaul unlikely — and probably unnecessary. Adding depth wouldn’t hurt, but running it back and expecting growth from the younger players feels like the right move.