Texans May Have Found the Missing Pieces to Their Passing Attack

The Houston Texans have been searching for more consistency from their passing attack this season, and Sunday's win over the Los Angeles Chargers offered an encouraging glimpse of what the offense could look like when multiple receivers are producing at a high level.

While Nico Collins remains the centerpiece of the passing game, the recent performances from Tank Dell and Kayshon Boutte could be just as important to Houston's offensive outlook moving forward.

Collins finished Sunday's game with four receptions for 55 yards, continuing to provide C.J. Stroud with a reliable option in the passing game. However, the Texans need more than one pass catcher to consistently make plays if they want to maximize the potential of their offense.

That became especially important with Jaylin Noel now out for the season and Jayden Higgins already missing the entire year.

Dell delivered one of his most encouraging performances since returning from his significant knee injury. He hauled in four receptions for 105 yards and his first touchdown since suffering the injury in 2024. Getting that kind of production from Dell could make a significant difference for an offense that has needed another consistent downfield threat.

The Texans know what Dell can bring when he is healthy and playing confidently. His ability to stretch the field and create opportunities in the passing game gives Stroud another weapon defenses must account for, which could also create more favorable opportunities for Collins.

Boutte was even more impressive and had his best game in Houston since they acquired him from the New England Patriots in August. He finished with four receptions for 125 yards and two touchdowns on the day. According to Pro Football Focus, he earned a 94.5 overall offensive grade and a 93.9 receiving grade.

If Houston can consistently get that type of production from both receivers, it could completely change the dynamic of the offense.

Of course, one strong performance doesn't guarantee that Dell and Boutte will maintain this type of play throughout the remainder of the season. Dell is still getting back under his feet after his return to play, and Boutte will need to show that Sunday's performance can translate into consistent production.

If Sunday's performances are a sign of what's to come, the Texans could have a much more dangerous passing attack than they've shown for much of the early portion of the season. With Collins already established as a top option, getting Dell and Boutte involved consistently could be exactly what this offense needs considering their lackluster rushing attack.