Why the Texans traded for versatile Ben Skowronek: ‘True competitor, physicality, playmaking ability’

HOUSTON – There were a lot of reasons why the Texans executed their trade for wide receiver Ben Skowronek.

Once it became clear the Los Angeles Rams were going to release the former seventh-round draft pick from Notre Dame, the Texans acquired Skowronek and a 2026 seventh round selection from the Rams in exchange for a 2026 sixth-round draft pick.

It came back to his size and toughness at 6-foot-3, 224 pounds, ability to block at fullback or downfield at wide receiver and ability to catch.

Skowronek has 58 career receptions for 575 yards and one touchdown. He has rushed for one career touchdown on an end-around, too.

Last season, Skowronek emerged as a capable special-teams contributor as he recorded 13 tackles as he appeared in a career-high 71 percent of the snaps in the kicking game.

And Texans coach DeMeco Ryans, familiar with Skowronek’s game from his time in the NFC West with the San Francisco 49ers, was glad to add him to the roster.

“With the trade there, we’re excited to add more depth to our wide receiver position and more competition,” Ryans said. “Ben is a tough player. I’ve played against him a couple times, and he’s a true competitor. He plays the game the right way, so I’m excited to add his physicality and his playmaking ability to our team.”

Aaron Wilson is a Texans and NFL reporter for KPRC 2 and click2houston.com.