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NFL·ANALYSIS·August 25, 2026 10:51 AM ET

Texans roster projection keeps Boutte, cuts Jones and Shepard

The model carries two quarterbacks and five running backs.

Wire Report IntelligenceUpdated Aug 251 min read
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What happened: Kayshon Boutte slots into a six-receiver group with Nico Collins, Justin Watson, Xavier Hutchinson, Lewis Bond and Jaylin Noel. C.J. Stroud and Davis Mills are the only quarterbacks projected onto the 53, with Brett Rypien among the cuts.

Why it matters: Houston's receiver overhaul follows Jayden Higgins' season-ending injury and the trade of Jaylen Reed and a 2028 seventh-round pick for Boutte. Noah Whittington's preseason rise also puts pressure on Jawhar Jordan in the race for the No. 3 running-back role.

By the numbers: Projected offensive counts: two quarterbacks, five running backs, six receivers and four tight ends. Houston has carried five running backs in each of the past three seasons.

What to watch: The final preseason game offers one more evaluation before Houston trims its roster to 53.

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NFLAnalysisHouston TexansKayshon BoutteZay Jones
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