Following a disappointing 2-5 start to the 2026 season, the Houston Texans are re-evaluating their current roster. General manager Nick Caserio is considering mid-season trades to better support quarterback C.J. Stroud.
Kayshon Boutte’s declining snaps vs. Xavier Hutchinson’s 50% usage
The Houston Texans' wide receiver room is currently a study in contrasts as the team attempts to find offensive rhythm. As the squad struggles through a disappointing 2-5 start, Kayshon Boutte has seen his involvement diminish significantly . The report notes that Boutte's snap totals have hit a season low over the last two weeks, a trend exacerbated by the emergence of Marvin Harrison Jr. and Tank Dell. Because Boutte is playing on an expiring contract, the front office may view him as a candidate to move now to secure some trade value rather than losing him for nothing later. This lack of production from the receiving corps has left the offense struggling to sustain drives.
In contrast, Xavier Hutchinson has managed to carve out a consistent role despite being in the final year of his contract. according to the report, Hutchinson has appeared in over 50 percent of the Texans' offensive snaps in each of the last two weeks. This high level of usage suggests that while Hutchinson might not be a long-term priority for re-signing, he has become a functional part of the immediate offensive game plan.
Recouping value from Braden Smith’s $20 million deal
The offensive line remains a primary area of concern for general manager Nick Caserio as he weighs roster adjustments. Offensive tackle Braden Smith, who signed a $20 million contract this offseason, has struggled to find momentum due to a foot injury sustained before the season began. This injury allowed Trent Brown to secure the starting position, leaving Smith's role in Houston in a state of flux. The inability to stabilize the tackle position has directly contributed to the team's inability to protect their quarterback.
Similarly, guard Wyatt Teller has struggled to meet the standards expected of an offseason upgrade. The report highlights that Teller's only starts have come during the two-week period when Ed Ingram was sidelined with a groin injury.. The Texans may decide to move Teller to recoup some value from their initial investment, potentially finding a team that needs a veteran guard more urgently than Houston does.
The offensive line shuffle involving Jake Andrews and Evan Brown
Internal competition has also reshaped the center position for the Houston Texans. Jake Andrews, who was a serviceable starter throughout the previous season, has seen his role largely eclipsed by Evan Brown. As the 2026 season progressed, Andrews has been left in the shadows, making him a potential, albeit low-value, trade candidate.
While a trade for Andrews might only yield minimal assets, it could provide the front office with the flexibility needed to address other roster deficiencies. The instability in the interior line has directly impacted the protection of quarterback C.J. Stroud, making these personnel shifts a high priority for the coaching staff. Strengthening this unit is essential if the team hopes to turn their season around.
Will the Texans move David Montgomery to save the 2026 season?
The most significant question facing the Houston Texans is whether they will take a drastic step by trading a key piece like running back David Montgomery. While the report suggests the team may be hesitant to move him this early in the season,the 2-5 record has intensified the scrutiny surrounding the roster built to support C.J. Stroud.
Several critical questions remain for the Texans' front office. it is currently unverified whether Nick Caserio intends to prioritize immediate veteran help to salvage the current season or if he will pivot toward accumulating assets for the future. Furthermore, the team has not yet addressed whether the current offensive struggles are a result of scheme or if a complete personnel overhaul is required to protect their franchise quarterback.
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