The Texans took Noel in the third round of the 2025 NFL Draft, one round after taking his Iowa State teammate Jayden Higgins. For most of the year, both rookies were limited to part-time roles, with Higgins having the slight advantage in terms of both playing time and production. Higgins widened that gap as the year went on, while Noel largely remained in a limited role even when injuries seemed to open up opportunities. Noel at least did well with his limited targets, catching 26 of 35 for 292 yards and two touchdowns. He now figures to compete for the No. 3 receiver job, though he arguably has the raw athleticism -- 4.39 40, 41.5-inch vertical at 5-foot-10, 194 pounds -- to be more than a slot specialist.