Hamstring Injury Sidelines Nico Collins
The status of Houston Texans star wide receiver Nico Collins remains uncertain after suffering a hamstring injury during Sunday’s 23-20 win over the Buffalo Bills. Texans coach DeMeco Ryans, while speaking to the media on Monday, confirmed that Collins is recovering. However, the exact time of his return is unknown as hamstring injuries usually require several weeks to recover, Ryans explained.
Ryans Keeps Collins’ Playing Status Under Wrap
When questioned about Collins’ participation in the team’s upcoming game, coach Ryans was noncommittal. Despite this, a report by KPRC from Houston suggests that the Texans (4-1) hope to have Collins back in their Week 6 matchup against the New England Patriots (1-4).
Assessing Collins’ Contribution to the Texans’ Victory
Collins, midway through the first quarter, pulled his hamstring during a 67-yard touchdown catch. Despite his early exit, he managed two receptions for 78 yards. This season, the 25-year-old receiver has been the team’s biggest contributor with 32 catches, leading the league with 567 yards and three touchdowns.
Texas Except Collins and Mixon
If Collins can’t recover in time, it could hurt an offense already struggling without running back Joe Mixon. McXon, who had a great start to the season with 159 yards rushing in the opener, suffered an injury in Week 2 and has been on the bench since. The coach noted Mixon’s progress but was downright critical of his return.
Texans’ Performance Sans Collins
The Texans were able to build a 20-3 lead against the Bills even without Collins but struggled to maintain momentum in the second half. Quarterback CJ Stroud’s interception and fumble in the fourth quarter allowed the Bills to tie the score. However, Ka’imi Fairbairn sealed the victory for the Texans with a 59-yard field goal on the final play.
Stroud’s take on the game
“In the first half, we were able to move the ball as we planned,” noted Stroud. “But in the second half, we made a lot of mistakes, including penalties, misreads, and turnovers, which gave our opponents a chance to come back.
How Collins’ Absence Affects the Team
Stefon Diggs led the way with six receptions for 82 yards, and Stroud credited his performance and overall team effort. However, he acknowledged the big impact of Collins’ absence. Stroud described Collins as the best receiver in football, and his absence greatly affects the team’s performance. In keeping with his sentiments, coach Ryans asserted that it will take the cooperation of the team to replace Collins if he is unable to play in the upcoming games.
