3 Texans Players Who Could Be on the Move Before the NFL Trade Deadline
We're at the peak of trade season in the NFL. As the trade deadline sits right around the corner after the events of Week 9, rumors have begun to buzz, names are being thrown around headlines, and it makes for a busy, hectic few days for all parties involved.
The Houston Texans are no exception to that buzz, and while there has been chatter surrounding this team's potential to add talent with a deadline deal, there's a chance they could sell off a bit of their talent too. If they do decide to do so, there are a few players to keep an eye on as top candidates to see their way out the door.
Here's three players on the Texans who could draw some interest around the NFL as a potential trade chip:
RB Dameon Pierce
Since breaking out onto the scene in his 2022 rookie season, Dameon Pierce's role in the Texans' offense has steadily declined year after year— to the point where the 25-year-old running back has now been active for only three games, logging just 10 carries for 26 yards.
Even in a year where the Texans' backfield has been down Joe Mixon, Pierce hasn't seen his role increase much because of it. Instead, it's been Nick Chubb and Woody Marks leading as the one-two tandem behind C.J. Stroud.
The writing might be on the wall for the potential end of Pierce's tenure with the Texans sooner rather than later, and if an opposing front office is interested in adding a mid-season spark to their backfield at the deadline, Pierce could be a name to keep an eye on as someone Houston would have interest to cash in on.
OT Trent Brown
He hasn't played a single game for the Texans since signing back to the active roster at the start of October, but there's a world where Houston moves on from Trent Brown for a team seeking out some additional tackle depth.
Nick Caserio had no reservations when it came to sending off tackle Cam Robinson quickly into the season in a trade with the Cleveland Browns for a late-round pick, and based on Brown's experience alone, teams might have similar interest in his services. Brown has started 96 games throughout his 10-year career.
Maybe it's premature to write off Brown's time with the Texans before it really gets a chance to get the wheels spinning. However, it wouldn't be the first time this front office folded their hand on a veteran signing from this offseason sooner than expected.
DE Darrell Taylor
He's been a healthy scratch for over half of the season so far, including the Texans' past two games, falling down the depths of a talented defensive front in Houston. Yet, there's still a case that Darrell Taylor could have some intrigue around the league for those searching for help in their pass rush.
He's only 28 years old, and logged 24.5 career sacks in the previous five years he's played— nearly putting up a double-digit-sack season in 2022 with the Seattle Seahawks. There's bound to be a role as at least a rotational pass-rusher elsewhere, but for this season in Houston, that opportunity hasn't quite been there.
Don't be surprised if a team throws a late-round pick in exchange for Taylor as a dart throw to beef up their defensive front.
Kellen Moore Criticizes Players in Locker Room While Praising Davante Adams for Amazing 20-Yard Catch from Matthew Stafford
Kellen Moore, offensive coordinator for the Los Angeles Rams, didn’t hold back in his post-game comments, criticizing his team’s overall performance and calling for more consistency. However, amidst the frustration, Moore took a moment to praise
“Look, we’ve got a lot of work to do,” Moore said sharply as he addressed his team’s performance in the locker room. “I’m not happy with the execution, and frankly, neither should anyone in this room. We need to step up in every phase — offense, defense, and special teams. It’s time to hold ourselves accountable and take ownership of our mistakes.”
Moore’s frustration with his team’s performance was clear, but he did take a moment to highlight Adams’ incredible athleticism. “Now, despite the struggles, I do want to recognize Davante,” Moore continued. “That 20-yard catch he made from Stafford was something special. He’s a true playmaker, and that’s the kind of effort we need from everyone. We can’t rely on individual brilliance every time, but when you see a guy like Davante make a play like that, it reminds us all of the level we should be striving for.”
Adams, who is known for his acrobatic catches and elite route running, showcased his skill on the field with a stunning leap to snatch the ball out of the air. The 20-yard dart from Stafford was perfectly placed, but it was Adams’ ability to track the ball and leap into the air to make the catch that had everyone talking. His catch was a key highlight in a game where the Rams struggled to find rhythm offensively.
“His ability to make that kind of play at such a critical moment shows why he’s one of the best,” Moore added. “But the reality is, we need more of that kind of energy and focus from everyone, not just one player. We can’t afford to just wait for a star to make a big play.”
Moore’s words reflect his belief that the Rams have the potential to be a more consistent team, but that everyone must take responsibility and elevate their game. While the spotlight on Adams’ amazing catch was deserved, Moore’s critique in the locker room was a reminder that the team’s overall effort needs to match the high standards set by players like him.
The Rams will be looking to bounce back in their next game, and Moore will be hoping that the entire team takes his message to heart, especially with plays like Adams’ catch serving as a reminder of the potential within the roster.
