The Houston Texans are facing challenges ahead of their preseason game against the Las Vegas Raiders on August 20. The team recently lost wide receiver Jayden Higgins to a torn ACL, which will sideline him for the entire season. This injury is significant as it impacts the offensive unit led by quarterback C.J.
Stroud, who had a promising rookie season but has seen his performance decline over the past two years.
Despite the setback, Stroud is expected to take the field against the Raiders. Reports indicate that he will play a few series, potentially up to 25 plays, as the Texans continue to navigate uncertainties within their offensive line alignment. The first-string offensive line is anticipated to start, while the first-team defense will remain on the sidelines.
With Higgins out, Stroud will heavily depend on wide receiver Nico Collins, who had a productive 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 in Higgins' absence. Dell had previously established strong chemistry with Stroud but missed last season due to injury.
Noel, who was drafted shortly after Higgins, was college teammates with him at Iowa State.
