The New England Patriots have traded wide receiver Kayshon Boutte to the Houston Texans in exchange for safety Jaylen Reed and a draft pick, according to The Ringer’s Tom Pelissero. The deal reshapes both teams’ rosters, with New England opening up room in a crowded receiver group while Houston adds another option at the position.
Boutte, 24, developed into a dependable complementary receiver during his two seasons with the Patriots. Across 29 games, including 23 starts, he recorded 76 receptions for 1,140 yards and nine touchdowns. He also led New England with 168 receiving yards during last season’s four playoff games.
The trade comes after the Patriots made several significant additions at wide receiver. The signing of Romeo Doubs and acquisition of A.J. Brown created additional competition for playing time, leaving Boutte’s role less certain heading into the season.
New England also returns Mack Hollins and has young receivers DeMario Douglas and Kyle Williams on the roster. Both could be candidates for larger roles and increased opportunities following Boutte’s departure.e for more snaps and production volume.
There was speculation in June, after the Brown trade was official following months of anticipation, that Boutte could have quietly let New England know that he wouldn’t mind playing elsewhere in 2026.
This is a crucial season for Boutte. The former sixth-round draft pick is entering a contract year, set to hit free agency in the spring, and now appears to have a better chance to increase his market value with a big season in Houston vs. a more crowded New England depth chart.
The move comes on the heels of Texans wide receiver Jayden Higgins tearing his ACL during training camp. He was ruled out for the remainder of the 2026 season.
Boutte was used primarily as a perimeter threat in the past two seasons and was effective on vertical shots, but he was also used occasionally in the slot. His production peaked in the first half of last season, before a hamstring injury that reemerged in the postseason, despite some strong playoff moments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who did the Patriots trade Kayshon Boutte to?
The Patriots traded Boutte to the Houston Texans.
What did the Patriots receive for Kayshon Boutte?
New England received safety Jaylen Reed and a draft pick in the trade, according to Tom Pelissero of The Ringer.
How did Kayshon Boutte perform with the Patriots?
Boutte recorded 76 receptions for 1,140 yards and nine touchdowns in 29 games, including 23 starts, over the past two seasons.
How did Boutte perform in the playoffs?
Boutte led the Patriots with 168 receiving yards across four postseason games last season.
Why did the Patriots trade Boutte?
The trade helps clear space in a crowded receiver room after the Patriots added Romeo Doubs and A.J. Brown while also retaining Mack Hollins and young receivers DeMario Douglas and Kyle Williams.
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