With fellow tight end Jordan Thomas (cracked rib) and Kahale Warring (concussion) on IR, Akins figures to see added opportunities in the Texans offense this season.
The 2018 third-rounder hauled in 17 passes for 225 yards in 16 games as a rookie last season and seemed destined to work in a timeshare with Thomas, but Akins now profiles as the Texans' top pass-catching tight end. Meanwhile, veteran teammates Darren Fells and Logan Paulsen are valued more for their blocking ability.