The Houston Texans are preparing for their preseason game against the Las Vegas Raiders on August 20, facing significant challenges due to injuries. The team recently lost wide receiver Jayden Higgins to a torn ACL, sidelining him for the entire season, which affects the offensive unit led by quarterback C.J. Stroud.
Stroud, who has experienced a decline in performance over the past two years after a promising rookie season, is expected to play a few series, possibly up to 25 plays.
In Higgins' absence, Stroud will rely on wide receiver Nico Collins, who had an impressive season last year with 71 receptions for 1,117 yards and six touchdowns. Other receivers, including Tank Dell, Xavier Hutchinson, and Jaylin Noel, will also need to step up.
Dell, who had previously built strong chemistry with Stroud, missed last season due to injury, while Noel, a recent draft pick, was college teammates with Higgins at Iowa State. The Texans aim to solidify their offensive strategy as they navigate these setbacks ahead of the upcoming season.
