The Houston Texans made it a top offseason priority to revamp the offensive side of the ball. After the CJ Stroud-led offense failed to take a step forward last season, GM Nick Caserio radically changed the offensive line and upgraded the wide receiver room.
The new additions mean that a few of the current Texans are in trouble heading into the OTAs.
One of those players is wide receiver Xavier Hutchinson. Following the additions of Christian Kirk via a trade and the selections of Jayden Higgins, and Jaylin Noel, the rest of Houston's pass-catching rotation may find themselves out the door.
WR Xavier Hutchinson May Find His Time in Houston Come to an End
Hutchinson had an expanded role in 2024 after Stefon Diggs and Tank Dell suffered season-ending injuries. He played over 50% of offensive snaps each game over the final stretch of the season, but failed to make an impact. In 16 games, he caught 12 passes in 26 targets for 117 yards and zero touchdowns.
When the Texans drafted Hutchinson in the sixth round of the 2023 NFL Draft, they had high hopes for the Iowa State standout. Thanks to his six-foot-three frame and athletic tools, Hutchinson was an intriguing prospect, but he hasn't been able to put it all together yet.
Houston will likely start Nico Collins, Kirk, and Higgins to begin the season. Jaylin Noel's place in the rotation is also guaranteed, but spots in the rest of the WR room are up for grabs. John Metchie, Justin Watson, and Braxton Berrios will be competing with Hutchinson for the WR5 spot.
Once the offseason programs start, the Texans will have a better idea of who they will keep on the roster. Unless Hutchinson impresses early, he is the most likely candidate to be cut before training camp comes around.