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Patriots trade Kayshon Boutte to Texans for Jaylen Reed

8/27/2026

Summary

Patriots Trade Boutte

The New England Patriots traded receiver Kayshon Boutte to the Houston Texans for Jaylen Reed and a 2028 seventh-round pick.
Boutte requested the trade in March 2026, prompting the Patriots to look for partners.
He finished the 2025 season with 33 catches, 551 yards, six touchdowns and a 16.7-yard average.
Eliot Wolf said the deal fits the Patriots’ depth needs and future plans.

Summary

Boutte Changes Number

Wide receiver Brandin Boutte will attend the Texans’ first practice in Charlotte on Wednesday.
He will change his jersey number from No. 9 to No. 88.
The Texans will play their final preseason game against the Carolina Panthers on Friday night.
Starting receiver Jayden Higgins suffered a season-ending ACL tear during a joint practice.
Rookie third-round pick Jaylin Noel and Xavier Hutchinson will compete for the outside slot receiver role.

Summary

Vrabel Roster Overhaul

Head coach Mike Vrabel has shed most Belichick-era captains.
The Patriots released or traded nearly every 2023 captain, many joining other clubs.
They also discarded most of the 2024 draft class, signaling a roster overhaul.
Negotiations with 2023 first-round cornerback Christian Gonzalez have grown tense, reflecting doubts about his value.
Vrabel retained third-round pick wideout A.J. Williams despite inconsistent play, favoring his draft investment.

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Patriots Trade Boutte

The New England Patriots traded receiver Kayshon Boutte to the Houston Texans for Jaylen Reed and a 2028 seventh-round pick.
Boutte requested the trade in March 2026, prompting the Patriots to look for partners.
He finished the 2025 season with 33 catches, 551 yards, six touchdowns and a 16.7-yard average.
Eliot Wolf said the deal fits the Patriots’ depth needs and future plans.

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