With star wide receiver Tank Dell currently sidelined due to extensive lower-body surgeries, the Houston Texans are witnessing the emergence of their promising second-year pass-catchers, Jayden Higgins and Jaylin Noel. Their exceptional performance during the initial phases of Organized Team Activities (OTAs) has garnered significant praise from head coach DeMeco Ryans, signaling their readiness to step into more prominent roles within the team's offensive scheme. This development is crucial as the Texans navigate Dell's recovery, which is expected to extend through the remainder of the offseason.
Texans' Second-Year Receivers Impress During Early OTA Sessions
As May of 2026 draws to a close, the Houston Texans' training camp is abuzz with the strong performances of two young wide receivers, Jayden Higgins and Jaylin Noel. While Pro Bowl quarterback C.J. Stroud's preferred target, Tank Dell, continues his rehabilitation from a series of lower-body surgeries that have kept him off the field since December 2024, the spotlight has shifted to these sophomores. Dell's return to full participation in drills remains uncertain, leaving his future role a subject of speculation.
The Texans had already anticipated the possibility of Dell's extended absence, wisely drafting both Higgins from Iowa State and Noel on the second day of the previous year's draft. Higgins quickly established himself as a reliable secondary option in the passing game, complementing the talents of fellow Pro Bowler Nico Collins. Noel, though primarily utilized in kick and punt return duties, also made valuable contributions in the receiving game. Now, a year wiser and more accustomed to offensive coordinator Nick Caley's system, both players are being looked upon to become vital assets for Stroud, particularly during this pivotal season.
Head coach DeMeco Ryans expressed his satisfaction with their progress after recent camp sessions. Speaking on Thursday, Ryans commended Higgins, stating, "Higgins has done a really great job of taking advantage of the offseason, really coming back in shape. He's looking bigger, stronger, faster, which is what you expect for a second-year player of his caliber. He's definitely taking advantage of it. I'm really excited to see what it's going to look like this season. I know he's going to have a really good year based on how he looks right now. He's in shape. He's ready to roll."
Higgins, who was the Texans' top pick in the second round, concluded his rookie season with an impressive 41 receptions for 525 yards, tying Collins with a team-leading six touchdowns and averaging 12.8 yards per catch. Noel, who secured 292 receiving yards and two touchdowns, often made impactful plays late in games, eventually carving out a niche as the team's fourth primary receiving option.
Ryans also highlighted Noel's improvements: "‘J-Noel’ has done a really great job as well, improving at his craft and how we're able to move him around different areas. He's doing a great job as a kick returner, punt returner, we're emphasizing him on working on getting vertical. He's doing a really great job of working on those things as well. So, both guys are taking the necessary steps to improve.” The Texans are set to resume the second phase of their OTAs on Tuesday, where Higgins and Noel will undoubtedly continue to showcase their evolving talents.
The proactive approach of the Houston Texans in drafting talented receivers has paid dividends, demonstrating astute foresight in squad planning. The dedication shown by Higgins and Noel in their offseason training underscores the impact of continuous personal development in professional sports. Their commitment not only bolsters the team's depth but also presents exciting possibilities for the offensive strategy, proving that even in the absence of a key player, emerging talent can rise to the occasion and exceed expectations.
