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Texans WR Xavier Hutchinson applies for a spot on the 53-man roster

Xavier Hutchinson knows he has put everything on the line.

He knows that every time the Houston Texans called him to play, he delivered. The circumstances didn't matter. It didn't matter if it was in practice or on game day.

The Texans' second-year receiver understood the task and mastered it with flying colors. After Saturday's 17-15 win in the last preseason finale against the Los Angeles Rams, Hutchinson mentioned that he had built up an attractive record this summer.

Houston now has to see if it is tempting for Hutchinson to stay on the 53-man roster.

“If they decide to step up to the plate, they decide to do it. If they don't, they don't,” Hutchinson said Saturday after the game. “I can look at myself in the mirror and say I did everything I could and I know I've gotten better.”

Three receiver spots were already secured before practice ended. Nico Collins had a successful year and just signed a new three-year deal to stay with CJ Stroud. Tank Dell had a record-breaking rookie season that would have been even better had he not suffered a season-ending leg injury. The Texans also traded four-time Pro Bowler Stefon Diggs to bolster Stroud's arsenal.

Three spots are still open. Six receivers want to avoid being cut. During practice, Hutchinson fought with John Metchie III, Steven Sims, Robert Woods, Noah Brown and Ben Skowronek for the title of “next best option” and the No. 4 position.

He improved his chances on Saturday with four catches for a team-leading 34 yards. His most impressive play of the preseason came in the first quarter when Case Keenum threw the ball just behind him, forcing him to twist his body backward to catch an 18-yard pass.

“I'm super proud of that play,” Hutchinson said. “A ball that most people would think is uncatchable. I want to catch it. I want to make those plays.”

The Texans knew Hutchinson had potential after he was drafted in the sixth round out of Iowa State in 2023. He was a two-time All-Big 12 pass catcher and became the Cyclones' all-time leading receiver in 2022.

Hutchinson focused on his route running during the offseason, believing that while his 6-foot-3 size could solve some problems, crisper plays would better showcase his massive frame.

Texans coach DeMeco Ryans and passing game coordinator Ben McDaniels praised Hutchinson's work ethic competing alongside Dell, Diggs and Collins. He has been one of the more consistent players in practice, which has led to better results on game days.

Although he leads Houston in receptions (12) and receiving yards (144), there is a nervous atmosphere ahead of cutdown day on Tuesday. Metchie, who caught a touchdown pass in last week's win over the New York Giants, has looked impressive and consistent. Woods is a veteran who would start immediately if Diggs hadn't arrived.

Sims and Brown are more valuable on special teams than Hutchinson. The same goes for Skowronek, although Hutchinson may have the upper hand in passing.

Hutchinson's hope is that he impressed the right people. If not, maybe another team was impressed enough to sign him elsewhere. He has no control over the matter now, so there's little to worry about.

He will leave the locker room knowing that he lived up to his expectations and gave his all.

Internally, that is enough.

“I can say I gave 100 percent,” Hutchinson said. “Whatever their answer is, I just have to accept it, whether it's good or bad.”

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