Texans WR Christian Kirk has a strained hamstring that likely keeps him out of the opener against the Rams for Week 1. He could be out for additional time as the Texans proceed with caution. The Texans list rookie WR Jaylin Noel as Kirk’s backup.
What They're Saying
Adam Schefter of ESPN: “Texans WR Christian Kirk has a strained hamstring that is expected to sideline him for at least Sunday’s opener vs. the Rams and possibly longer, per sources. One source estimated it to be a two-week injury for Kirk, but the Texans will be “cautious” with him.”
2025 Fantasy Football Impact
Kirk was expected to open the season as the starting slot WR for the Texans, but that will be delayed. A fractured collarbone ended his 2024 season in Week for the Jaguars last year. Now this strained hamstring will stop him from opening the season as a starter for the Texans.
Rookie third-round WR Jaylin Noel is slated to pick up the slot snaps from Kirk. Noel was drafted alongside college teammate Jayden Higgins to bolster the Texans WR room. He has an opportunity to make an instant impact.
This could also see a slight uptick in passes for WR Nico Collins or even showcasing Higgins a bit in Week 1.
Waiver Wire Targets
Noel is worth an end of the roster add in deeper leagues just in case he blows up and secures the slot role. If he is quiet, he should be an easy cut upon Kirk's return.
Hold onto Kirk for now, but continue to monitor this injury.