Texans Acquire Christian Kirk from Jaguars for Future Draft Pick

HOUSTON, Texas — The Houston Texans have finalized a trade to acquire wide receiver Christian Kirk from the Jacksonville Jaguars, sources confirmed on Thursday. Houston will send a 2026 seventh-round draft pick to Jacksonville, a deal that highlights the Texans’ efforts to enhance their receiving corps for the upcoming NFL season.

Originally slated for release, Kirk’s move to Houston comes as the franchise seeks to rebuild its offense after a disappointing end to the 2024 season. The trade cannot officially occur until the new league year begins on March 12.

Kirk, who signed a four-year, $72 million deal with the Jaguars in 2022, was a significant target for quarterback Trevor Lawrence, posting career highs in receptions (84), receiving yards (1,108), and touchdowns (eight) during his first season in Jacksonville. However, his usage dwindled significantly over the subsequent seasons due to injuries and the emergence of other receiving threats.

“It’s a new chapter for me, and I’m excited to be a part of a team that is working hard to compete,” Kirk said in a statement regarding his trade. “I believe I can make a real impact in Houston.”

Before the trade, Kirk’s performance dipped notably, with only 57 receptions for 787 yards and three touchdowns in 2023 and a further decline in 2024, where he was limited to 27 receptions for 379 yards due to injuries. His struggles coincided with the rise of rookie receiver Brian Thomas Jr. in Jacksonville, further diminishing Kirk’s role.

Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans has prioritized improving his receiving threats, acknowledging a ‘need for playmakers’ following the team’s playoff exit. “We can’t have our top guys sidelined and expect to win games,” Ryans said, referencing injuries to wide receivers Nico Collins and Tank Dell during the 2024 season. “Kirk brings the speed and experience we need, particularly in critical situations.”

Adding Kirk serves as a strategic move for the Texans, who are looking to support quarterback C.J. Stroud. The team suffered setbacks in 2024, allowing a staggering 52 sacks, which highlighted the need for not just offensive improvements but also increased threats in the passing game.

Kirk’s contract includes a cap hit of $24.1 million for 2025, prompting the Jaguars to explore trading him. This move allows Jacksonville to save $10.4 million on their salary cap without the ramifications of a release.

As Kirk joins the Texans, the organization aims to enhance its offensive capabilities amid a competitive division landscape. Kirk has expressed enthusiasm for this fresh opportunity where he is expected to play a pivotal role as the Texans look to improve their season.