The Houston Texans are balancing between progress and inconsistency this season. As they prepare for a crucial matchup against Bo Nix and the Denver Broncos, General Manager Nick Caserio is scouting trade options. His focus remains on realistic targets and cost-effective roster upgrades.

“Over the last week or two, we’ve talked about just everybody in the league. And in the end it’s about who is realistically available. What’s the cost associated with it? Because sometimes I think there’s reports, ‘oh, so and so is available.’ And then you might call and say, ‘hey, just following up and they’ll be like ‘nah, it’s kind of a garbage report. It’s like, ‘okay, no problem.’ At least you have more accurate information,” Caserio said.

With large contracts on the books for Danielle Hunter and Tytus Howard. Their estimated effective salary cap space of $3.2 million limits their ability to absorb new large salaries in trades.

Caserio’s staff has surveyed multiple teams to assess potential fits. The Texans’ most pressing needs lie in the backfield depth due to injuries. After Joe Mixon suffered a foot/ankle injury he was sidelined with uncertainty around his return. Defensively, the Texans have battled inconsistency in their pass rush.

The team has relied on veteran Nick Chubb and rookie Woody Marks. However, their combined production has been underwhelming, averaging less than four yards per carry. And Woody Marks is now tagged questionable after suffering a calf injury during practice.

“So who’s realistically available? What are your needs? What are you looking for? Is there a match? We’ll see what happens here at the trade deadline, but we’ve made a number of calls. If anything comes to fruition, it will. If it doesn’t, then we’ll move forward with what we have,” Nick Caserio added.

Houston’s rushing game currently averages 113.4 rushing yards per game. They rank 17th in the middle-of-the-pack in rushing yards per game and struggle in short-yardage situations. In their recent Week 8 win against the San Francisco 49ers, the Texans’ rushing offense showed improvement, accumulating 157 yards, their second-highest total of the season. 

Another significant problem area has been their efficiency in the red zone and on third-and-short situations. In the game against the 49ers, they struggled to convert opportunities into touchdowns, a recurring issue. This season, their third-and-short conversion rate was reported as low as 33.3%.

Their front seven lacks depth beyond Will Anderson Jr., leaving them vulnerable against high-tempo offenses. A mid-round pick could be leveraged for a rotational edge rusher or experienced safety. Caserio’s trade strategy emphasizes long-term roster value over blockbuster trades. 

Marcus Spears backs Breece Hall for the Houston Texans

Marcus Spears of ESPN believes Breece Hall could strengthen the Houston Texans’ offense ahead of the trade deadline. 

“I think Houston Texas will be a place. I don’t know what’s going on with Joe Mixon and his injury, and I know the production of Breece Hall. His ability to catch the ball out the backfield, the explosive ability and the run game, and some help for this offensive line. I think he would provide as well,” Spears said.

The New York Jets have relied heavily on Hall this season, yet his workload and the team’s offensive struggles have prompted speculation about potential moves. Hall has recorded 581 rushing yards, 2 touchdowns, and 21 receptions for 178 receiving yards this season. Hall’s acceleration and route-running out of the backfield could ease pressure on C.J. Stroud and open up the Texans’ short passing game.

The Jets hold Hall on a rookie contract through 2025, making him affordable for potential suitors. He will earn the remaining $1.69 million this season and $9.69 million in 2026, with $1.38 million guaranteed. A trade would bring minimal cap impact, allowing Houston to add a young, dynamic back without long-term financial risk.

“I think Houston should entertain that, especially with the firepower that’s in the AFC that they’re gonna have to contend with,” Marcus Spears added.

Joining Houston gives Hall access to a more effective offensive line and a system that better suits his adaptability. Additionally, he would be able to develop alongside one of the most potential young quarterbacks in the AFC. Houston might be a strategic location for both parties if the Jets consider trade calls.