ClutchPoints
The Houston Texans have their eyes set on contending in the AFC. However, they’ll need more than just a brilliant young quarterback to get there. Note that CJ Stroud’s sophomore campaign showed both promise and pain. Much of the latter was rooted in protection breakdowns and inconsistent offensive output. As the team enters 2025, a new wave of rookies is not just joining the roster—they’re pushing to redefine it. Several veteran starters now face real competition from young, hungry players drafted to do more than just develop. They’re here to take jobs—and some might do just that.
The biggest storyline for Houston entering the 2025 season is the state of its offensive line. After a 2024 campaign marred by protection issues that led to regression in Stroud’s play, many expected the Texans to make major investments up front. Instead, the team traded away its best lineman—Pro Bowl left tackle Laremy Tunsil. They also parted ways with both Kenyon Green and Shaq Mason. That’s left fans wondering: who will protect the franchise quarterback?
Head coach DeMeco Ryans addressed the uncertainty during OTAs. He emphasized flexibility and intelligence across the unit.
“When it comes to finding our best group, it will be a lot of mixing and matching guys,” Ryans said. “Putting guys in different spots and seeing which five guys work well together… It’s just a matter of finding that five once we get to training camp and put pads on.”
Of course, it’s not just the offensive line where changes are brewing. Across the board, rookies are pushing veterans. Let’s break down the Texans veteran players whose roles will be pushed by rookies in the 2025 NFL season.
Christian Kirk signed with the Texans to be a reliable, versatile weapon for Stroud. However, his hold on the No. 2 wide receiver spot is looking shakier by the week. Enter Jayden Higgins, the Texans’ top pick in the 2025 NFL Draft and a physical specimen out of Iowa State.
Standing 6’4 with a strong frame and deceptive speed, Higgins brings a different dimension to the Texans’ offense. He racked up 1,183 receiving yards and nine touchdowns in his final college season. He also regularly outmuscled defenders and showcased impressive route-running technique. In OTAs, Higgins has already flashed signs of chemistry with Stroud, particularly on red-zone fades and sideline back-shoulder throws.
Of course, Kirk offers experience and slot versatility. That said, he lacks the physical dominance Higgins brings. With Nico Collins and Tank Dell cemented in their receiver roles, Houston may prefer to flank them with a player who shares similar physical traits. Higgins could allow the Texans to bully opposing secondaries. That’s an identity that’s hard to build with finesse alone. If Higgins continues his strong summer, Kirk may find himself moving into a WR3 role or fighting for slot reps in certain packages.
Cam Robinson was brought in as...
