In the 2025 NFL Draft, the Houston Texans made a notable move by selecting wide receivers Jayden Higgins and Jaylin Noel from Iowa State. Both players present unique attributes, raising the debate among dynasty fantasy football managers on who to prioritize in rookie drafts.

Higgins enters as a second-round pick (34th overall) with the potential to contribute significantly, particularly in a role that complements C.J. Stroud's passing style. His impressive size and movement capabilities position him well for red zone opportunities, although he may face challenges against press coverage. Projections suggest he could become a WR3 with touchdown potential.

In contrast, Noel's third-round selection (79th overall) signals a competitive landscape for targets, particularly with established receivers like Christian Kirk and Nico Collins in the mix. However, his elite speed and athletic prowess suggest an upward trajectory, with forecasts hinting at a more promising long-term ceiling than Higgins. As both players develop, their roles in the crowded Texans receiving corps will be critical to their fantasy values.

In the quest for fantasy football success, wide receivers are paramount, often filling multiple slots in lineups. Choosing wisely can lead to significant advantages, with sleepers often turning into breakout stars. Notable 2025 candidates include Jayden Higgins, who, after being a Round 2 pick by the Houston Texans, stands to benefit from a hefty target share with C.J. Stroud as quarterback. His potential WR15 finish could be a steal.

Darnell Mooney of the Atlanta Falcons also garners attention after a solid 2024 season, where he fell just short of 1,000 yards. With Michael Penix Jr. at the helm for the whole season, Mooney's WR2 upside is enticing, especially with coverage distractions like Drake London.

Tre Harris of the Los Angeles Chargers is another intriguing option at WR65. Positioned as the No. 3 wideout, he has the chance to rise within the depth chart, particularly as Mike Williams ages and struggles with production. Meanwhile, Keon Coleman of the Buffalo Bills integrates into an offense where he holds substantial upside, potentially rising well above his current WR57 draft spot.

The 2025 NFL Draft has seen a remarkable acceleration in rookie contract signings, with 220 of the 257 selected players already inked. This surge can be traced to the rookie wage scale established in 2011, streamlining contracts to four years, with first-round selections eligible for a fifth-year option. Currently, only three first-round picks remain unsigned, including the highly touted Travis Hunter, chosen second overall by the Jacksonville Jaguars. In a notable twist, the Cincinnati Bengals are embroiled in a dispute with 17th overall pick Shemar Stewart regarding contract language on salary guarantees.

What's particularly striking is the number of unsigned second-round picks, with 30 out of 37 yet to sign, an anomaly not seen since 2020, when pandemic restrictions hindered signings. Conversely, last year saw all second-round picks signed by mid-June. The Houston Texans kickstarted this year's second-round process by offering Jayden Higgins a fully guaranteed contract, a historic first for a second-round pick, setting a new precedent for rookie deals.

In a surprising twist following the NFL Draft, a significant number of unsigned players remain, particularly from the second round. Out of the 40 players yet to sign, a staggering 30 hail from the second round. This trend raises questions about contract negotiations and market dynamics for rookie players. Notably, the two players from the second round who secured contracts, Carson Schwesinger of the Cleveland Browns and Jayden Higgins of the Houston Texans, both signed fully guaranteed deals, marking an unprecedented development in rookie negotiations.

This shift hints at potential changes in how rookie contracts are structured and the implications for future drafts. Teams may need to reevaluate their approaches to contracts, especially if this trend continues into the next draft cycle. With the clock ticking, franchises must also consider their roster needs and budget constraints while navigating the complexities of signing young talent.

As Organized Team Activities (OTAs) kick off for the Houston Texans, veteran players are getting their first glimpses of new draft picks. Pro Bowl receiver Nico Collins has expressed his enthusiasm for the Texans' top draft selection, Jayden Higgins, who was picked 34th overall. Collins was particularly impressed with Higgins's capabilities, dubbing him a 'playmaker'. Furthermore, Collins highlighted the potential of Jaylin Noel, a third-round pick and former teammate of Higgins at Iowa State, indicating that the Texans are adding significant talent to their roster.

Collins's excitement suggests that the Texans are looking to revamp their offense with new, dynamic players who can contribute immediately. Both Higgins and Noel bring skills that could complement the existing receiving corps, possibly leading to a more explosive passing attack in the upcoming season. The chemistry developed during OTAs will be essential for integrating these new talents effectively into the Texans' system.