Jayden Higgins, the Houston Texans’ second-year wide receiver, is absolutely lighting up training camp right now, emerging as the clear standout just one week in. This isn’t the same guy from last season who was supposed to be a third option. He’s already tearing it up as a top target for C.J. Stroud, leaving zero doubt he’s fully embracing that No. 2 role.
The Numbers Are Getting Hard to Ignore
Remember last year? Higgins, a second-round pick out of Iowa State, was battling just to win reps against top-tier corners like Kamari Lassiter and Derek Stingley Jr. Flash forward to today: in just six practices, he’s pulled in nearly a dozen catches against those very same Pro Bowl defensive backs. That’s a massive jump! Stingley himself confirmed it, saying, “He’s more in sync with C.J. C.J. knows more about how he’s going to play or run a route. I feel like their timing is better.” You can’t ask for a clearer endorsement than that from a guy who has to cover him every day. Last season, Higgins still put up decent numbers with 41 catches for 525 yards and six touchdowns, but it’s clear the game is slowing down for him, and the connection with Stroud is electric.
Offseason Grind Is Paying Off Big Time
The growth isn’t just happening on the field. Higgins spent his entire offseason in Houston, building that crucial chemistry with Stroud instead of combine training. “I was able to be here instead of combine training, trying to run a 40,” Higgins said. “I was able to be here and lift with the guys. The coaching staff did a great job.” He’s been putting in the work in the film room, dissecting leverages and angles with Stroud, calling it “a thing that’s always evolving.” Coach DeMeco Ryans sees it too, praising Higgins for playing with confidence and catching every ball. He said Higgins “is only going to continue to go up and up.” This isn’t just camp hype, it’s a testament to real dedication and the impact of being fully integrated into Nick Caley’s offense.
This kind of explosive playmaking is exactly what Houston has been hunting for. Collins, a two-time Pro Bowler, has missed multiple games over the years due to injury, including last year’s divisional round loss because of a concussion. Schultz, who was second in receiving yards, also left a game early with a calf strain. Higgins led all receivers that Sunday with six catches for 59 yards, but never found the end zone. He’s absolutely primed to change that this season, and the early returns from training camp are showing us that the Texans are about to unleash a serious weapon. Get ready for some fireworks, because Higgins is about to explode onto the scene.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
Leave a Reply