When Braxton Berrios stepped onto the field at Lumen Field on Monday night, it wasn’t just a return—it was a lifeline. The Houston Texans activated their veteran wide receiver and primary return specialist just hours before their 2025 matchup against the Seattle Seahawks, while starting receiver Christian Kirk sat out with yet another hamstring injury. This time, it’s the second time this season Kirk has been sidelined by the same issue, and the timing couldn’t be worse: the Texans’ offense is already reeling from a slow start, and now they’re down their most reliable deep threat.
A Second Hamstring, Same Story
Christian Kirk was supposed to be the anchor of Houston’s passing game in 2025. Signed to a five-year, $70 million extension last offseason, he was expected to be the go-to target for quarterback C.J. Stroud. But the injury bug has other plans. On September 4, 2025, Kirk missed practice with a hamstring strain. By September 8, he was inactive for the season opener against the Los Angeles Rams. Rookie Jayden Higgins stepped in, logging 27 snaps—enough to show promise, but not enough to replace Kirk’s route precision.Now, less than eight weeks later, Kirk’s hamstring has flared up again. This isn’t just bad luck—it’s a pattern. Teams don’t usually see the same hamstring injury recur twice in a single season unless there’s an underlying issue: incomplete rehab, early return to play, or perhaps a structural weakness. The Texans’ medical staff has been tight-lipped, but insiders say Kirk’s return timeline remains uncertain. "He’s not cleared," one source told KPRC 2’s Aaron Wilson. "And they’re not risking another setback. Not with this schedule."
Berrios’ Return Is More Than Just Depth
Enter Braxton Berrios. The 27-year-old isn’t flashy, but he’s dependable. In 2024, he averaged 11.3 yards per catch and handled 90% of the team’s punt returns. He’s also one of the few players on the roster who can reliably move the chains on third down. His return doesn’t just fill a roster spot—it restores balance.For weeks, Berrios was sidelined alongside Kirk. Both missed the first two practices of September, and both were inactive for the Rams game. During that stretch, the Texans’ return game was a mess. Rookie Jaylin Noel fumbled a punt against the Rams. Silas Bolden, who got limited snaps in Kirk’s absence, was too raw to handle critical situations. Now, with Berrios back, the Texans have someone who’s been there before. He’s not just a receiver—he’s a field position weapon.
Other Activations: Reed and Autry Join the Fray
The Texans didn’t just activate Berrios. On the same day, they brought back Jaylen Reed, the sixth-round safety from Penn State University, and veteran defensive end Denico Autry.Reed, a 6-foot, 211-pounder who signed a four-year, $4.95 million deal with a $243,800 signing bonus, missed the first five games with a sprained knee suffered in training camp on July 28, 2025. In 2024, he had three interceptions and 98 tackles. His return gives Houston much-needed depth at safety after starter Jonathan Owens was knocked out of last week’s game with a concussion.
Autry, meanwhile, was activated from the PUP list after missing six games due to a PED suspension in 2024. He’s no longer the dominant edge rusher he was in New England, but he’s still effective in run defense. In 10 games last season, he recorded three sacks and 13 tackles. With Darrell Taylor also inactive Monday, Autry’s presence on the line could be critical against a Seahawks offense that relies on quick passes and screen plays.
The Ripple Effect: Who’s Out, Who’s Up
The Texans’ inactive list for Monday’s game was long: Christian Kirk, Trent Brown, Dameon Pierce, Darrell Taylor, and Jarrett Kingston. That’s three offensive starters out, including their top two tackles and their leading rusher.On the Seahawks’ side, things weren’t much better. Their starting cornerbacks, Devon Witherspoon and Julian Love, were both out. That’s a major opening for Berrios and Xavier Hutchinson, who played 43 of 63 offensive snaps against the Rams. With Houston’s offense desperate for rhythm, this was the perfect storm.
What’s Next? The Jaguars Loom
The Texans’ next game is Sunday, October 27, 2025, at NRG Stadium in Houston, Texas, against the Jacksonville Jaguars. That’s a crucial matchup. The Jaguars’ defense is stingy against the run but vulnerable in coverage. If Kirk isn’t cleared by then, the Texans will need Berrios to be more than a backup—he’ll need to be a starter.And if Berrios delivers? That could change everything. He’s not a superstar. But in a season where the Texans are fighting to stay relevant, sometimes you don’t need a superstar. You need someone who shows up. Someone who’s been through this before.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Braxton Berrios’ return impact the Texans’ offense?
Berrios’ return gives the Texans their most reliable third-down target and punt returner since Week 1. With Christian Kirk sidelined, he’s now the most experienced receiver on the roster, capable of moving the chains and improving field position. His chemistry with C.J. Stroud, built over two seasons, is critical in high-leverage situations where rookies like Jayden Higgins and Jaylin Noel aren’t yet trusted.
Why is Christian Kirk’s hamstring injury so concerning?
Hamstring injuries that recur within eight weeks often indicate incomplete rehabilitation or underlying muscle imbalances. Kirk missed the season opener and now returns to the IR after just five games. If he misses the next game against Jacksonville, it raises serious questions about the team’s medical protocol and whether he’ll be ready for the stretch run. Teams that lose their top receiver twice in a season rarely make the playoffs.
What’s the significance of Jaylen Reed’s activation?
Reed’s return adds a physical, tackling machine to a secondary that’s been thin after Jonathan Owens’ concussion. His 98 tackles and three interceptions in 2024 show he’s a playmaker. With the Seahawks’ offense relying on short passes, Reed’s ability to cover tight ends and read routes could be the difference in containing Geno Smith’s quick-release game.
How did the Texans manage without Berrios and Kirk in Week 1?
They relied heavily on rookies Jayden Higgins (27 snaps) and Jaylin Noel (17 snaps), with Xavier Hutchinson playing 43 of 63 offensive snaps. The passing game was disjointed—Stroud threw three interceptions and averaged just 5.8 yards per attempt. Berrios’ absence meant no reliable slot receiver, and the Texans’ offense ranked 30th in yards per drive that game.
Is Denico Autry still a productive player after his suspension?
Yes, but in a limited role. Autry had three sacks and 13 tackles in 10 games last season, and while he’s no longer a pass-rush threat, he’s excellent against the run. His return gives Houston flexibility on third downs and helps cover for Darrell Taylor’s absence. He’s not the answer to their defensive woes—but he’s a solid piece in a patchwork unit.
What’s the Texans’ next game, and how does this affect their playoff chances?
They face the Jacksonville Jaguars on October 27 at NRG Stadium. With a 1-3 record, they’re already behind in the AFC South. If Kirk misses more time and Berrios can’t carry the load, Houston’s offense may struggle to score enough to win close games. Their playoff hopes hinge on winning this stretch—starting now.
