Big blow for the Texans this week: wide receiver Nico Collins, Houston’s offensive anchor, is officially out with a hamstring injury from Sunday’s nail-biter against the Buffalo Bills. The Texans managed to pull off a 23-20 win, but the victory came at a cost, with Collins now on injured reserve for at least four weeks. Head coach DeMeco Ryans confirmed that Collins will be out until their November 10 matchup against the Detroit Lions, giving him a solid recovery window.
Let’s talk numbers: through five weeks, Collins has racked up 32 catches for 567 yards and three touchdowns, leading the Texans’ offense and solidifying his chemistry with QB C.J. Stroud. The Stroud-Collins duo has been a force since last season, and losing Collins mid-season is bound to test the depth of Houston’s offensive game. But the team isn’t out of options. Next up, the Texans face the Patriots, Packers, Colts, and Jets—four games that could keep their record looking solid even without Collins.
Enter Stefon Diggs and Tank Dell, who are now in the spotlight to fill the Collins-sized gap. Diggs, who’s just a step behind Collins with 31 catches and 315 yards, is ready for his chance to lead. And after a season shadowed by off-field drama, he can make a statement by letting his game speak louder than any headlines. Then there’s Tank Dell, who’s been quieter this season but proved last year he has star potential. Now’s his time to step up and show he can perform at an elite level alongside Stroud.
Losing Collins is a hit for Houston, no doubt, but with a favorable lineup of matchups and a strong roster, the Texans have the tools to make it through—and maybe even thrive—while their top receiver heals up.
