Texans rookie WR Jayden Higgins expected to reach bold claim in Year 1

USA Today

18-07-2025

How good will Houston Texans rookie wide receiver Jayden Higgins be in his rookie season? Well, one publication has a bold take on a potential breakout year.
The Athletic's Mike Jones recently released his list of "breakout players" for each team heading into training camp. For the Texans, options are limited since both cornerback Kamari Lassiter and defensive back Calen Bullock become fixtures of the secondary last season during their rookie campaigns. Since Higgins is still finding his footing in the pros, he's an option that's poised to perhaps exceed expectaions as the second-best weapon behind Pro Bowler Nico Collins.
"With their wide receiver unit hit hard by injury (Tank Dell) and free agency (Stefon Diggs), the Texans set out this offseason to find young quarterback C.J. Stroud some impactful playmakers," Jones wrote. "Higgins, a second-round pick this year out of Iowa State, certainly seems capable of fitting the bill. The 6-foot-4, 214-pound receiver out of Iowa State brings size, athleticism and speed. Lining up along with Nico Collins and new veteran addition Christian Kirk, Higgins should receive plenty of opportunities to help the Texans. He can win 50-50 balls, gets good separation and should make a name for himself in Houston this season."
Higgins, who made history earlier this offseason as the first second-round pick in league history to receive a four-year, fully guaranteed contract worth $11.7 million, is expected to step into a substantial role after the Texans selected him 34th overall in April. The 6-foot-4 Miami native was arguably college football's most consistent weapon over his two seasons in Ames.
In 2023 as Cyclones' top weapon, he caught 53 passes for 983 yards and six touchdowns. Last year, while helping Iowa State secure its first-ever 11-win season, Higgins collected 87 receptions for 1,183 yards and nine touchdowns. He also has been praised for having exceptional speed and sure-fire hands, dropping just one pass in two seasons while playing in the Big 12.
As a physical and athletic target, Higgins should pair well next to Collins as a promising addition on the outside for Nick Caley's offense. Given his speed and catch radius, Collins should provide more versatility in this receiving corps to help get C.J. Stroud back on track in a prove-it year ahead of contract negotiations.
Texans coach DeMeco Ryans and general manager Nick Caserio were high on Higgins coming out of college. Caley, who helped the Los Angeles Rams' passing attack finish top five last season, also has seen the flashes. Expect him to start Week 1 opposite Collins on the outside and newcomer Christian Kirk in the slot.
The Texans and Higgins return to the Methodist Training Center for the start of training camp next Wednesday.