Robert Woods could be headed back to the AFC East if Bleacher Report is correct in their trade prediction.
While the Houston Texans feel content at wide receiver, they could have one too many heading into the 2024 season.
Stefon Diggs, Nico Collins and Tank Dell aren’t in jeopardy of losing starting reps after their success last season. John Metchie III has been one of the top targets in the early stages of training camp and a favorite target of C.J. Stroud.
So, does this mean that veteran pass-catcher Robert Woods could be traded again? And if so, who could need him for their passing attack?
According to Bleacher Report, the New York Jets should be interested in bringing Woods back to the AFC East. In return, the Texans pick up a 2025 sixth-round pick while freeing up a roster spot for another pass-catcher.
Woods played that role in Houston long enough for the younger guys to phase him out of the offense. He could do the same in New York,” Bleacher Report’s Alex Ballentine writes. “The Texans really don’t need Woods with Stefon Diggs joining Nico Collins and Tank Dell. Getting him off the payroll and picking up a draft pick upgrade wouldn’t be a bad move for Houston.” Meanwhile, the Jets get a veteran in Woods who has spent time in the slot and outside.
Woods has been rumored to be a trade option throughout the offseason. Last year, he finished fourth on the team in receptions, fifth in yards and only found the end zone once. With a younger version in Metchie, plus former sixth-round pick Xavier Hutchinson, Woods is highly expendable.
Right now, Woods isn’t guaranteed to make the final 53-man roster. In New York, he likely would begin the season as a starter while third-round pick Malachi Corley gets accustomed to the playbook.
The Jets are in win-now mode with a top-ranked defense and four-time MVP Aaron Rodgers back at quarterback. The Texans could also benefit from adding draft compensation with players not expected to be a part of the long-term plan.
Overall, this would be a win-win deal for both teams past 2024.