Who Should I Start? Jaylin Noel or Pat Bryant

Friday, May 9, 3:52 PM

Per the team's transaction logs, the Houston Texans have signed third-round wide receiver Jaylin Noel to a four-year, $6.46 million deal. Noel was the No. 79 overall pick and the second of two Iowa State wideouts selected by the Texans, joining second-rounder and fellow Cyclone Jayden Higgins. With the news that WR Tank Dell (knee) will likely miss the 2025 season, the door is open for both pass catchers to compete for snaps and impact the field. Veteran wideout Christian Kirk does pose a threat and significant target competition. Particularly for Noel, who profiles more like Kirk, considering he operated out of the slot in college. However, the rookie bolsters much more juice than the veteran (4.39 40-yard dash) and should eventually make his way to the starting roster. He caught 80 balls for 1,194 yards last season (eight TDs) and is also a seasoned returner.

Wednesday, July 2, 6:24 PM

Denver Broncos rookie third-round wide receiver Pat Bryant consistently showed physicality to win contested catches during the team's offseason program, according to ESPN's Jeff Legwold. Additionally, quarterback Bo Nix showed the confidence to target Bryant in tight situations. Consistent playing time could be hard to come by with Courtland Sutton, Marvin Mims Jr. and Troy Franklin getting most of the work with the starters, but Legwold thinks Bryant will be in the mix if he builds on his offseason work in training camp and the preseason. The 22-year-old from Illinois isn't a burner by any means, but the Broncos saw a precise route-runner who consistently created space with an explosive release off the line of scrimmage. Bryant has been compared to former Saints wideout Michael Thomas, who had quite a run in Sean Payton's offense in New Orleans. For now, Bryant is one to watch with training camp approaching.