After further tests, Houston Texans receiver Nico Collins could be out longer than just a few days leading up to Week 6’s matchup against the New England Patriots.
At his annual Monday press conference, Texans coach DeMeco Ryans said Collins would be “week to week” after leaving early in Sunday’s 23-20 win over the Buffalo Bills.
Ryans said Collins was “in good spirits” after the game, though there isn’t a set timetable given how hamstrings heal.
“He’s attacking his rehab the right way,” Ryans said. “Our staff will help him get back right when that right time is.”
Collins, who leads the NFL with 567 receiving yards, suffered the injury on his 67-yard touchdown catch from C.J. Stroud during the first quarter. He did not return after leaving the blue medical tent for further evaluation.
Stroud managed to throw for 331 yards while completing passes for Cam Akers, Dare Ogunbowale, Dalton Schultz, Tank Dell and new top weapon Stefon Diggs, but the scoring was limited. Houston only totaled nine points after Collins’ departure.
Even at 1-4, Houston can’t afford to overlook the Patriots, especially with it being a road matchup. Ryans said the team feels good about its depth, but losing Collins does come with concerns about the play design.
“Nico has been the best receiver in the NFL this year,” Ryans said. “So, do you replace him? No. Everybody just steps up and whatever role you’re asked to do, just step up and play your role the proper way.”
Dell and Diggs are the favorites to see expanded roles with Collins limited in practice. The latter is coming off a six-catch afternoon for a team-leading 82 yards.
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Dell, who served as Houston’s secondary option in the passing game opposite Collins, caught four balls for 38 yards.
Houston also could expand the roles of Xavier Hutchinson, John Metchie III and veteran Robert Woods, who secured exceptional field position last week on a 13-yard punt return to set up the Ka’imi Fairbairn game-winning field goal.
“Robert has been outstanding for us since the first day he stepped in here. I mean, he’s done everything that we’ve asked,” Ryans said. “Whatever role he’s in, Rob is a true leader in that regard. He shows up and works every single day, doesn’t say much, but he works.
“He’s a team-first player and that’s what everybody should aspire to be like. When you’re playing, especially here for us, you need that team-first mentality.”
Kickoff from Gillette Stadium is scheduled for noon CT.