The Houston Texans are preparing for their preseason matchup against the Las Vegas Raiders on August 20, facing challenges due to injuries. Recently, wide receiver Jayden Higgins suffered a torn ACL, which will keep him out for the entire season, significantly affecting the team's offensive lineup led by quarterback C.J. Stroud.
Stroud, who had a strong rookie year, has experienced a decline in performance over the last two seasons.
Despite these setbacks, Stroud is anticipated to participate in the game, playing a few series, potentially up to 25 plays. The first-string offensive line is expected to start, while the first-team defense will not be on the field.
With Higgins unavailable, Stroud will rely heavily on wide receiver Nico Collins, who had an impressive previous season, recording 71 catches for 1,117 yards and six touchdowns. Other receivers such as Tank Dell, Xavier Hutchinson, and Jaylin Noel will also need to rise to the occasion in Higgins' absence. Dell, who missed last season due to injury, had previously built a solid rapport with Stroud.
Noel, drafted shortly after Higgins, played alongside him at Iowa State.
