Tom Brady never played for the Texans, but Braxton Berrios feels like one season with the GOAT -- gave him a PhD in Football.
New Houston Texans wide receiver Braxton Berrios credits his rookie-year experience with Tom Brady as a foundational influence, suggesting that the legendary quarterback’s approach could elevate any NFL roster, including the Texans.
Berrios, who joined Houston this offseason after stints with the Patriots, Jets, and Dolphins, reflected on his time learning from Brady during his first year in New England. “I really think I got a PhD in football just, you know, watching him,” Berrios said in a recent interview. “To see what professionalism really looks like from a rookie year was, I think, the greatest start I could have had."
The 29-year-old receiver described how Brady’s attention to detail and ability to communicate his perspective shaped Berrios’ understanding of the game. “He would stop and say, ‘Hey guys, this is what I am seeing and this is what I’m thinking.’ So earlier when I talked about seeing with the QB’s eyes… that was all from rookie year, from that study and how he saw it,” Berrios explained.
Berrios believes that adopting Brady’s mindset—anticipating coverages, understanding the quarterback’s challenges, and focusing on preparation—can benefit any team. “If I can see what the quarterback sees and I know his problems and I can help solve those, that makes me a lot more valuable to him,” he said.
As the Texans aim to build on last season’s playoff success, Berrios offers more than just special teams skill; he also carries a championship background developed alongside one of football’s greatest leaders. “That year, I really think I got a PhD in football just watching him,” Berrios reiterated, highlighting that the lessons learned from Brady’s professionalism and football IQ are now part of what he contributes to Houston.
Texans’ newest signee Braxton Berrios shares first impressions of team
Veteran receiver and return specialist Braxton Berrios is settling in with the Houston Texans after signing a one-year deal, bringing leadership, special teams skill, and optimism for the 2025 season.
Wide receiver and return specialist Braxton Berrios is settling into his new home with the Houston Texans, bringing veteran experience and optimism to a team he describes as “incredible” and “capable” as it eyes a promising 2025 season.
Berrios, 29, joined the Texans on a one-year, $2 million deal after two seasons with the Miami Dolphins, where he contributed both as a receiver and a return man. The former All-Pro returner is expected to add depth to Houston’s wide receiver corps and provide a boost to special teams, an area where he has excelled throughout his career.
“It’s been awesome,” Berrios said during his first appearance on Texans Radio. “This facility, this coaching staff, the team — it’s been a very easy transition, knowing a decent amount of guys before getting here. And then, obviously, once OTAs started, seeing everybody and getting to know the rest of the crew, we have an amazing group here.”
The move to Houston marks a new chapter for Berrios, who previously spent time with the New England Patriots and New York Jets before his stint in Miami. He emphasized the appeal of the Texans’ culture and the potential of the current roster. “Why not? It’s a very incredible, capable team with a great coaching staff. The ceiling’s the limit here,” Berrios said.
Berrios arrives as the Texans reshape their receiver room, following the addition of Christian Kirk and the uncertainty surrounding Tank Dell’s recovery from injury. While Berrios is expected to compete for reps at receiver, his primary impact may come as a return specialist, especially under special teams coordinator Frank Ross. Coach Ross, I was very excited getting here with him. I think he's a great mind in special teams. He knows what he's doing. The guys in there really respect him and want to play for him. And that's, you know, that's a big thing. The effort and the want to on special teams is about 80% of it."
The veteran is also adapting to rule changes that could increase his opportunities in the return game, such as the new kickoff rules that incentivize returns. "I'm a big fan of this. I was a fan last year. Obviously I don't think it spiked the numbers that they wanted to as far as returns go. And so now, I mean, it's almost a punishment to the kickoff team to kick it into the end zone. I mean, you give it to the other team at the 35 yard line. And the scoring statistics, you know, from the 25 two years ago if you start on the 25 versus when you start on the 35 are, you know, it's a big difference. So, I'm I'm very excited."
Berrios, who tore his ACL last October, is working his way back from injury but is optimistic about contributing in multiple phases. Throughout his career, he has tallied 134 receptions for 1,323 yards and six touchdowns, along with a career average of 24.8 yards per kickoff return and 14.7 yards per punt return in 2024 before his injury.
Reflecting on his journey, Berrios credits his early years with the Patriots — including time spent learning from Tom Brady — for shaping his football IQ and professionalism. “I really think I got a PhD in football just watching him,” Berrios said. “If I can see what the quarterback sees and I know his problems and I can help solve those, that makes me a lot more valuable to him.”
As training camp approaches, Berrios is focused on making the most of his opportunity in Houston. “No matter what, keep your head down and keep doing what you do, keep doing what got you here,” he said, offering advice to younger players. “There’s so much that goes on in the business of football … don’t forget what got you here.”
