The Houston Texans offense will have its No. 1 wide receiver.
Nico Collins, who leads the league in receiving yards, will play Sunday, despite popping up on the injury report Thursday with a hamstring injury. Collins told media he would be playing after logging a full practice on Friday.
#Texans official inactives: Joe Mixon (ankle), Tank Dell (bruised ribs), Jimmie Ward (groin), Dameon Pierce (ankle), Jamal Hill and Nick Broeker
Active for Texans: Foley Fatukasi (shoulder), Nico Collins (hamstring) @KPRC2 https://t.co/f5uBLkpBu9— Aaron Wilson (@AaronWilson_NFL) September 29, 2024
Houston was already without Tank Dell, who suffered bruised ribs in last week’s contest against the Minnesota Vikings.
With Dell sidelined former second-round pick John Metchie III will make his season debut. Metchie hauled in 10 passes for 100 yards and a touchdown in the preseason.
Xavier Hutchinson and Robert Woods have been the only other receivers to rotate in on offense in place of Stefon Diggs, Dell or Collins this season. It’s unclear, who will play the most in three wide receiver sets.
Veteran safety Jimmie Ward failed to practice on Thursday and Friday, eventually leading the team to rule him out. Rookie safety Calen Bullock, who’s playing time was increasing, will make his first NFL start.
Houston’s defense received a boost with the active status of interior defensive lineman Foley Fatukasi, who was limited throughout the week with a shoulder injury. Fatukasi was a member of the Jaguars last season and will get a chance to play his former team.
Other players unavailable for Sunday’s game include sixth-round pick Jamal Hill and depth offensive lineman Nick Broeker.