Texans linked to two potential trade chips to bolster offense

Every offseason, it seems like the Houston Texans are in the market to land a player or two via trade who needs a fresh start after a down season. The 2026 campaign looks to be no different, as several names could be headed down to NRG Stadium via trade.

Who are the top options?

ESPN's Dan Graziano and Benjamin Solak identified 16 players who could use a new location to better their horizons next season. Some are based upon contracts, while others are performance-related.

For the Texans, two names appeared on the list, both offensive targets who could elevate the way fans view C.J. Stroud and offensive coordinator Nick Caley in a prove-it year. The first? Miami Dolphins running back De'Von Achane, who enters the final year of his rookie contract and could be shipped off to help kickstart the rebuild in South Beach.

"The league seems to believe the Dolphins are in a full rebuild, which means they're getting calls on all of their star players," Graziano wrote. "My sense is that they're far more likely to extend Achane's contract than to listen to those trade offers, but in their situation, you answer the phone when it rings. So, call any Achane trade a significant long shot that would take an awfully enticing package to get done."

A speed-threatening highlight reel, Achane is in the final year of his rookie contract. Through three seasons, the Pro Bowler and Houston native has rushed for 3,057 yards and 22 touchdowns on 5.6 yards per attempt while catching 172 passes for an additional 1,277 yards and 13 scores.

Given that Miami is entering a rebuild and the Texans are in win-now mode, a trade would make sense for both sides. Graziano did mention that the Dolphins don't seem inclined to move off the former third-round pick, putting his odds at 10% of being shipped off.

The other name? Detroit Lions tight end Sam LaPorta, who is coming off back surgery and could be looking for a fresh start entering a contract season.

"LaPorta had back surgery this past season (489 receiving yards, three touchdowns) and hasn't looked as explosive as he did as a rookie (889 yards, 10 scores in 2023), but he remains one of the most exciting young receivers at the position," Solak wrote. "Teams looking for a high-volume receiving tight end might be willing to spend a draft pick now on LaPorta, instead of risking a bidding war in free agency in 2027 should he come back to form."

By adding LaPorta, Houston would have two of the better options to elevate the passing game on offense for Stroud's game. The only problem here? Detroit is in win-now mode, too, meaning the asking price to move off him would be likely astronomical.

Solak and Grazinao would tend to agree, putting his chances of being moved at 10%. Even if the Texans want to target a tight end, LaPorta would have to be an option in free agency come 2027 rather than a trade this offseason.

This article originally appeared on Texans Wire: Texans linked to two potential trade chips to bolster offense