The Houston Texans selected Iowa State wide receiver Jaylin Noel in the third round of the 2025 NFL Draft, 79th overall.
Houston doubled up on wideouts from Iowa State after selecting Jayden Higgins with the first of their two second-round picks. Noel provides additional depth at receiver behind starters Nico Collins, Christian Kirk, and Tank Dell.
Pre-draft profile
Noel is the second of two Iowa State receivers who figure to be big-time NFL contributors. He has the speed to take the top off the defense from any alignment, and his athleticism is a game-changer in confined spaces. Noel shows impressive explosiveness in and out of his breaks to create consistent separation at the top of his routes. He's also flashed the ability to parlay his athleticism into missed tackles and big gains with the ball in his hands, even if that wasn't a regular part of his production in college. Noel has battled drops at times, and dealing with the physicality of NFL corners could present a challenge. But he's a remarkably well-rounded prospect who should have every opportunity to be an impactful No. 2 receiver.