Fotu is a 2020 fourth-round pick (No. 114 overall) who has also spent time with the Arizona Cardinals and Las Vegas Raiders. His veteran presence adds depth to a Texans defensive line that has had to cope with the losses of Tim Settle Jr. and Mario Edwards Jr. The move to elevate Fotu was noted as significant, with the note that it was Houston’s only roster move ahead of the game. 🔒🤝
With Nico Collins out due to a concussion—and Justin Watson also sidelined—the Texans are reportedly turning to Braxton Berrios to be active for Sunday’s game. Berrios, a 2018 Patriots draft pick who has since played for the Jets, Dolphins, and now the Texans, appeared in four games this season for Houston, recording six receptions for 37 yards on eight targets and hasn’t played since Week 10 vs. Jacksonville. He traveled with the team to be ready for the matchup. 🎯🧳
Meanwhile, the Patriots cleared cornerback Christian Gonzalez, the 2024 Pro Bowler and Second Team All-Pro, which would have posed a tougher matchup for Collins. Without Gonzalez, the Texans’ options at receiver—led by Braxton Berrios and supported by Christian Kirk and rookie Jayden Higgins and Jaylin Noel—face a different challenge, and Houston went 2-0 in games without Collins during the regular season, though not against this version of New England. 🛡️👀
Overall, Houston’s duo of moves reflects a two-pronged approach: bolster the defense with Fotu’s veteran interior presence while adjusting the offense through Berrios due to Collins’ absence. The Texans are navigating missing pieces on offense while preparing for a sturdy Patriots defense, hoping to execute a game plan that leverages depth and experience. 🔄🏈
