An interesting sleeper wide receiver may attract the attention of the Houston Texans.
Although the Houston Texans fell short in the playoffs this season, C.J. Stroud and the franchise have a promising future ahead.
Certainly, there is clearly work to be done. At this moment, the Texans aren’t a true Super Bowl contender. Nonetheless, with a proper offseason, that situation might alter in 2025.
In recent years, Houston has grown increasingly aggressive. Since DeMeco Ryans became the head coach, the Texans have been heading in the right direction. Currently, they require just the right move or two to progress towards their ultimate aim of winning a championship.
As the offseason approaches, it’s evident that Houston must improve its offense. The wide receiver spot requires assistance, and the offensive line is also a vulnerability.
Acquiring additional weapons for Stroud is essential. Tank Dell might be sidelined for a significant period while he recuperates from a severe injury. Stefon Diggs is on the verge of entering free agency.
Although the Texans must identify a reliable No. 1 option for Stroud, they may also aim to enhance the lineup as a whole in the 2025 NFL Draft.
That said, Houston is expected to acquire a hidden asset for Stroud.
Pro Football Network has published a fresh mock draft in which the Texans choose Utah State wide receiver Jalen Royals in the third round with the 89th overall selection.
“Jalen Royals is an effective college wide receiver who might not excel in any particular area of his play, but he possesses intelligence, dependable hands, and a versatile skill set that enables him to create separation regularly,” they stated.
Measuring 6 feet tall and weighing 205 pounds, Royals might not frequently be mentioned as a top wide receiver prospect. However, he possesses the ability to evolve into a playmaker in the NFL.
In the past two years at Utah State, Royals has accumulated 126 catches for 1,914 yards and 21 touchdowns. He has been highly productive without attracting attention.
Successfully drafting him in the third round might turn out to be a significant bargain for Houston.
Bleacher Report has likened Royals to the Green Bay Packers’ young receiver Jayden Reed. If that comparison turns out to be accurate, the Texans would be acquiring a possible No. 1 receiver. Reed has demonstrated that sort of potential with the Packers.
I’m looking forward to seeing what Houston will do this offseason. Bringing in Royals and a reliable receiver might solve the problems at that position. Maybe the Texans might consider re-signing Stefon Diggs.
One thing is evident as we enter the offseason: Houston is not too far away, and the front office will do everything possible to chase a Super Bowl.
