The Houston Texans’ season has already felt like an uphill battle, and now the hill just got steeper. Sitting at 0-3 after three straight frustrating losses, the team has been desperate for a spark.
Instead, they were dealt another blow this week when star wide receiver Nico Collins showed up on the injury report with a nagging knee issue.
Nico Collins’ Injury Concern, Status Up in the Air for Week 4
During practice on Wednesday, Collins, who has been one of the offense’s few dependable weapons, was limited. The announcement instantly sparked concerns about his health, as well as the potential implications for the Texans’ offense, which has struggled mightily so far this season.
#Texans first injury report of the week.
Derek Stingley, Tytus Howard and Jakob Johnson all didn’t go. Sting is the big concern there.
Nico Collins has a new knee injury that limited him today. Something to monitor. pic.twitter.com/S17CZHU08X
— Sam Warren (@samwarren_3) September 24, 2025
The next few practices will be crucial in determining whether he plays on Sunday, even though his involvement, even if it is limited, gives some hope.
For Texans fans, Collins has been one of the bright spots in an otherwise dim start. Through three games, he’s hauled in 14 catches for 181 yards and two touchdowns, proving once again that he can be a difference-maker. In fact, his steady hands and ability to stretch the field have given quarterback C.J. Stroud a fighting chance to keep games close. Without him, Houston’s offensive struggles could feel even heavier.
The offense has been the story of the Texans’ season so far, and not in a good way. Houston has put up only 38 points in three games, averaging fewer than 13 points per contest. Drives stall, turnovers pop up at the worst times, and Stroud has spent too many plays running for his life behind an inconsistent offensive line.
The defense has actually held its own, keeping games winnable, but the lack of scoring has left little margin for error.
All Eyes on Practice This Week to Determine Collins’ Status
That’s what makes Collins’ injury so concerning. He isn’t just a receiver, he’s a security blanket, a playmaker, and one of the few guys who can flip momentum with a single catch. Losing him, or even having him at less than 100%, would be another hurdle for an offense that’s already trying to climb out of a hole.
This week’s matchup against the Tennessee Titans almost feels like a must-win, even this early in the season. Both teams are 0-3, both are searching for identity, and both are desperate to avoid sinking further into irrelevance. If there’s a game for the Texans to get back on track, it’s this one. And whether or not Collins can suit up may play a big part in that story.
For now, all the Texans can do is hope. Hope that Collins’ knee holds up. Hope that the offense can finally click. Hope that Week 4 marks the turning point, not just another chapter in a season slipping away.
