For the Texans, the most important play in the 23-20 victory over the Buffalo Bills may not have been the game-winning Ka'imi Fairbairn kick. Exited following a 67-yard touchdown reception at the end of the first quarter, Nico Collins injured his hamstring and did not return to the game.
CJ STROUD TO NICO COLLINS FOR THE 67-YARD TD 🚀
(via @NFL)
pic.twitter.com/5UW2e34vNr— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) October 6, 2024
Ian Rapoport of NFL Network tells us today that this injury is serious. The player has just been placed on the injured list and will miss a minimum of 4 games. Surprising news, especially since his coach DeMeco Ryans seemed optimistic this Monday.
“Nico is in a good state of mind. Of course, with hamstrings, it takes a few weeks. We will evaluate this week by week and we will see. »
Nico Collins on the foundations of his best statistical season
It's a hard blow for the Houston Texans, but also for Nico Collins. Drafted in the third round in 2021, the receiver cut his teeth in the Houston attack. Progressing from year to year, he passed the 1,000-yard mark for the first time last season (1,297 yards and 8 touchdowns). Better yet, Collins leads the league this season with 567 receiving yards. He averages 17.7 yards per reception and has already scored three touchdowns.
The Texans will play at New England and Green Bay before returning home to face the Colts in week eight. The week nine trip to face the Jets will be the fourth (and possibly final) game Collins will miss.
His absence will therefore deprive the AFC South leaders of a major weapon in their passing game. CJ Stroud will now have to deal with Stefon Diggs, Tank Dell, John Metchie, Xavier Hutchinson and Robert Woods.