Will theHouston Texans make a move at the upcoming NFL trade deadline?
If so, it's for bringing in someone, but rather shipping them off.
ESPN recently revealed the best 18 moves that should be made next week at the deadline. Sitting with only two wins, plus having already used a future second-round pick on wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr., the Texans are in no position to buy.
Given the weakness of the AFC, however, Houston is also in no position to sell heavily as it tries to gain ground in the playoff picture. But given that the Texans could move off some pieces for decent draft compensation, ESPN believes the team could move wide receiver Kayshon Boutte to free up playing time for names like Harrison and Tank Dell.
The buyer? A 4-4 Las Vegas
Raiders roster that's looking to make a run to the postseason under first-year coach Klint Kubiak. ESPN believes the Raiders should be more aggressive, going after names like Jacksonville's Brian Thomas Jr. For a bargain deal, that's where Boutte comes into play.
"The Texans dealt for receiver Kayshon Boutte before the season, but after the return of Tank Dell and the trade for Marvin Harrison Jr., Boutte's already-limited snap share is going to be squeezed," ESPN's Bill Barnwell wrote. "Boutte is a free agent after the season, so Las Vegas would essentially be getting a trial run with a potential starting wide receiver before deciding whether it wants to bring him back in 2027.
So far, Boutte has been nothing more than a depth piece of the Texans' passing game in a brief time with Houston. He's averaged about three catches per game for just under 30 yards and hasn't found the end zone. He's currently averaging 12.9 yards per reception and under 40 percent of offensive snaps.
Given that Houston could net a late Day 3 draft pick back for a receiver who doesn't fit into the long-term plans, this isn't a bad offer. Las Vegas needs someone in the passing game to pair with Tre Tucker on the outside. Plus, since Houston will probably let Boutte walk in free agency, landing somethins is better than nothing, right?
Both Harrison and Dell have recently joined the fold and could be part of Houston's plans beyond 2027, though Dell must show he can be a full-time factor in the passing game after suffering a leg injury in 2024. They need reps, meaning letting go of Boutte could open up more playing time for No. 1 and No. 18.
In his first game back, Dell caught a pass for a gain of 43 yards in the second quarter. He also returned a punt for 14 yards in the fourth quarter. Harrison caught two passes, including one for a touchdown just before halftime.
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The Texans must win on Sunday if they plan on making a push toward the AFC Playoffs.
This article originally appeared on Texans Wire: ESPN names Texans WR as top 'bargain piece' at NFL trade deadline
