What happened: Houston Texans wide receiver Jayden Higgins will miss the entire 2026 season after suffering a torn anterior cruciate ligament. The injury occurred during a red-zone play in Tuesday's joint practice with the Las Vegas Raiders.
Why it matters: The loss removes a primary target from Houston's passing attack ahead of quarterback C.J. Stroud's fourth season. Higgins had secured the WR2 job entering camp. His absence depletes a receiving corps already managing health issues for Jaylin Noel and Tank Dell.
By the numbers: Higgins recorded 41 catches for 525 yards and six touchdowns as a rookie in 2025.
What to watch: With Higgins sidelined, Xavier Hutchinson could assume an expanded role in the offense. The Texans continue preseason preparations while monitoring the recovery timelines for Noel and Dell.