The Houston Texans will be without starting wide receiver Jayden Higgins for the entire 2026 season due to a torn ACL sustained during a joint practice. This injury means the Steelers won't have to face Higgins when they host the Texans in Week 13. Higgins was coming off a strong rookie season, finishing third on the team with 41 receptions and 525 yards, alongside six touchdowns. With Higgins out, Nico Collins steps up as the lead wide receiver while the Texans look to bolster their receiving corps with other players, including TE Dalton Schultz.

By the Numbers
  • Higgins played in 17 games, starting 10, and recorded 41 receptions for 525 yards and six touchdowns.
  • In the Texans' Wild Card win over the Steelers, Higgins caught three passes for 39 yards.
Yes, But

The absence of Higgins is unfortunate, but the Texans still have key players like Collins and Schultz to support quarterback C.J. Stroud, who struggled in the playoffs last year.

State of Play
  • Nico Collins is expected to take on the top wide receiver role for the Texans.
  • Other receivers, including Tank Dell, Jaylin Noel, and rookie Lewis Bond, will have to step up in Higgins's absence.
What's Next

The Texans will look to adapt their offense without Higgins, relying heavily on their remaining receiving options and the run game led by David Montgomery and Woody Marks. Meanwhile, the Steelers monitor injuries to their own receivers, with an eye toward their upcoming games.

Bottom Line

The Steelers will benefit from not facing Higgins but must remain vigilant about their injury situation. For the Texans, this injury presents a challenge they must navigate as they aim for offensive support for their quarterback.