The Houston Texans had a hole at wide receiver after Jayden Higgins tore his ACL following a promising rookie year. They patched it by trading for New England Patriots deep threat Kayhson Boutte, who now appears to be stepping into a substantial role.

It only took safety Jaylen Reed and a 2028 seventh-round pick for Houston to land Boutte, who Patriots coach Mike Vrabel said probably would've been inactive on game days if he stuck around. Boutte was one of Drake Maye's favorite downfield targets, scoring nine touchdowns with 15.2 yards per reception over the last two seasons.

Things are looking much different for Boutte in Houston. The Texans will utilize Boutte immediately and have "immediate plans" for his usage, according to beat reporter Aaron Wilson. Boutte has reportedly been working overtime with quarterback C.J. Stroud, who's aiming for a bounce-back season ahead of his second NFL contract, and is listed as a starter alongside Nico Collins.

Is Kayhson Boutte worth rostering in 2026 fantasy football leagues?

Boutte is worth a flier at the end of your bench in 12-person leagues. He has big-play upside and will see ample targets as the Texans' No. 2 WR. Be prepared for a boom-or-bust season given the verticality of his game, however.

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This article originally appeared on For The Win: Why Kayshon Boutte could be immediately fantasy football relevant