The Houston Texans have announced that Nico Collins, their star wide receiver, will be placed on injured reserve due to a hamstring injury, sidelining him for (at least) the next four games. This news is a significant setback for the Texans, who are riding high with a 4-1 record after an impressive win over the Buffalo Bills. Collins has been the top target in Houston’s offense and currently leads the league with 567 receiving yards through the first five games.
Collins had a breakout season in 2023, quickly establishing chemistry with rookie quarterback C.J. Stroud. The duo connected throughout the year, with Collins setting career highs across the board, including 80 receptions, 1,297 receiving yards, and 8 touchdowns in just 15 games. He saved his best performance for last, racking up 195 yards on 9 receptions against the Indianapolis Colts, helping the Texans clinch the AFC South title.
The 25-year-old Michigan alum picked up right where he left off this season, starting 2024 on a tear. He eclipsed the 100-yard mark in three of his first four games, including a standout performance against the Jaguars in Week 4, where he recorded 151 yards on 12 catches. Collins continued to shine in Houston’s Week 5 game against the Bills, catching a 67-yard touchdown pass in the opening quarter before exiting with the hamstring issue that has now sidelined him.
Losing a player of Collins’ caliber is a tough blow, but the Texans have solid depth at the receiver position. Stefon Diggs, who joined the team in the offseason, is no stranger to being the go-to target, drawing on his experience from his years with the Bills. Second-year receiver Tank Dell is also expected to step up. Dell had a promising rookie season with 709 yards in 11 games, though he’s been quieter this year with 13 receptions for 137 yards through four games. Veteran Robert Woods adds experience and reliability, while young talents like Xavier Hutchinson and John Metchie will likely see expanded roles.
Injuries are never ideal, but the Texans are built to withstand this setback. They hold a two-game lead in the AFC South, and their defense has shown improvement over the past two weeks. Additionally, the upcoming schedule features matchups against the Patriots, Packers, Colts, and Jets — all teams currently struggling to find their form. These are winnable games if C.J. Stroud can continue to play smart, efficient football, and the defense maintains its recent momentum.
Once Collins returns, Houston’s offense will regain its full firepower, positioning them as one of the leading contenders to represent the AFC in Super Bowl LIX.
