Houston Texans fans are excited to see what the Iowa State duo of Jayden Higgins and Jaylin Noel can do in 2025.
So is fifth-year veteran Nico Collins.
“They got some dawgs, they got some playmakers,” Collins said this past week at his youth football camp in Houston. “DeMeco [Ryans], Nick [Caserio], they know what they are doing. You got Nick Caley, too. It’s going to be fun, a great year. I can’t wait to get going.”
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With Stefon Diggs off to New England and Tank Dell’s injury likely costing him to miss the 2025 season, the two receivers have a chance to contribute immediately. Higgins, a 6-foot-4 sure-fire target with 4.47 40-time speed, has potential as a No. 2 receiver opposite Collins on the outside and newly acquired Christian Kirk in the slot.
Noel, who primarily plays slot and is known for his route-running and open-field speed, has potential as a punt returner. Dell was expected to serve as the long-term returner with Robert Woods’ departure this offseason. He also should fight with Kirk for reps inside with a strong offseason.
Higgins and Noel both finished their final season in Ames with at least 80 catches, over 1,100 receiving yards and eight touchdowns. The Cyclone Bros. were also massive influences in helping Iowa State secure its first 11-win season in franchise history.
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Collins believes the Texans landed two studs to pair opposite him. Head coach DeMeco Ryans is sold on their potential, too.
“I think they benefit from having each other, having that brother from college to be with you throughout this process is only going to help those guys, I think, speed up their transition to the NFL,” Ryans said Friday.
The Texans return to the practice field this week for veteran minicamp.
This article originally appeared on Texans Wire: Texans Pro Bowl WR Nico Collins reveals thoughts on new Iowa State duo