Before Week 6, the Houston Texans will reveal devastating news about their elite offensive weapon.
Thanks in large part to C.J. Stroud and his excellent receiving group, the Houston Texans passing attack has enjoyed a fantastic start to the 2024 season through their first five games. In terms of catches, passing yards, touchdowns scored, and passing first downs, the Texans passing offense is rated first, second, and twelveth. Stefon Diggs has 31 catches for 315 yards and two touchdowns, Nico Collins has 32 grabs for 567 yards and three scores, and Dare Ogunbowale has 15 receptions for 155 yards and one touchdown. These are their top three receivers.
The top receiver for the Houston Texans has a worrying lower-leg injury.
Week 5 began with Nico Collins scoring a 67-yard receiving touchdown in the first quarter before seeming to hurt his hamstring. Collins concluded the day with two receptions for 78 yards and one score, but he did not play again for the rest of the game. On Monday, DeMeco Ryans informed the media that his ailment is “week-to-week.”
During his Monday media availability, Texans coach DeMeco Ryans stated, “Nico, he’s in good spirits.” “Undoubtedly, hamstrings require a few weeks to heal, so we’ll assess that week by week to see how soon we can get him back.”
Since Nico Collins was put on injured reserve on Wednesday, the Texans will be without their top receiver for at least the next four weeks, according to Ian Rapoport of NFL Network. The Texans play the New England Patriots on the road in Week 6, the Green Bay Packers on the road in Week 7, the Indianapolis Colts at home in Week 8, and the New York Jets on Thursday Night Football on the road in Week 9. Collins’ earliest available game is in Week 10, when they take on the Detroit Lions.
Nico Collins will likely be replaced in the starting lineup by second-year receiver Xavier Hutchinson of the Houston Texans. Hutchinson got more playing time last week after not playing at all as a rookie. He participated in 48 (71%) offensive plays and gained 31 yards with two receptions. As a starter in this league, he has an opportunity to provide a positive first impression.
With Collins out, expect Tank Dell and Stefon Diggs to grab the majority of the wide receiver targets. If John Metchie III and Robert Woods receive increased playing time, don’t be shocked. Their offense will suffer if they lose their top receiver, but they still have a couple trustworthy experienced alternatives.
Regretfully, during their most recent game, their star offensive weapon sustained an injury.
