UPDATE: Houston Texans wide receiver Nico Collins is trending towards missing the pivotal playoff matchup against the New England Patriots this Sunday, January 14, 2024. Collins, 26, did not participate in practice Thursday, raising alarms ahead of the crucial Divisional round game.
Collins exited Monday’s Wildcard victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers due to a concussion and is currently in the NFL’s concussion protocol. He has one last chance to practice on Friday, but indications suggest he may not be cleared to play. “Texans WR Nico Collins is not at practice today,” reported ESPN’s DJ Bien-Aime on social media, emphasizing that this nearly eliminates his chances of participating this week against the Patriots.
Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud delivered a standout performance against the Steelers, extending the team’s winning streak to 10 games. However, statistics show that in the eight games Stroud has played without Collins, he has a passer rating of only 85.9, with nine touchdowns and five interceptions. Stroud holds a 5-3 record as a starter during that stretch.
“We’re hoping Nico can play, but if not, we’ve had this experience before,” Stroud said on Thursday. “All our guys are talented; we have a lot of depth in that room. I have the most confidence in everybody in there to get the job done.”
In Collins’ absence, wide receiver Christian Kirk stepped up significantly against Pittsburgh, recording a career-high 144 yards and setting a franchise postseason record. Stroud is likely to rely heavily on Kirk if Collins is unable to suit up, with rookie Jayden Higgins also competing for targets.
“I was really happy for Christian knowing the type of guy that he is,” said Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans. “He’s one of the best guys in our locker room and he works extremely hard throughout the week. He’s been grinding all season to be an impact player for us.”
Stroud praised Kirk as well, stating, “I think he’s one of the best in the league. We’ve tried to find ways to get him the ball. For him to keep going week in and week out, prepping the right way, to see it pay off was really dope. Super proud of him.”
As the countdown to Sunday’s showdown continues, the Texans are bracing for a challenging game against the Patriots, especially if they must face them without one of their key offensive weapons. The team and fans alike are hoping for a positive update on Collins before the final practice of the week.
Stay tuned for the latest developments as the Texans prepare for one of the most important games of their season.
