Nico Collins will not play when the Houston Texans host the Cincinnati Bengals on Sunday after suffering a Grade 1 hamstring injury, according to a report by Aaron Wilson. The injury leaves quarterback C.J. Stroud and Houston's offense without one of their leading receivers in Week 2.
Collins was hurt during Wednesday's practice and did not participate in either of the team's next two practices. Houston listed him as out on its final injury report. His availability for the Texans' Week 3 game against the Indianapolis Colts has not yet been determined.
Collins began the season with seven receptions, 75 receiving yards and a touchdown during Houston's 36-31 loss to Buffalo. He has been among the Texans' most productive offensive players over the past three seasons.
Houston is expected to distribute Collins' opportunities among several receivers. Kayshon Boutte, Xavier Hutchinson and Jaylin Noel are among the players who could receive larger roles against Cincinnati.
Boutte could be an important option after joining the Texans late in the offseason. The team also is without Jayden Higgins, who has a season-ending ACL injury. Stroud connected with 11 players in the season opener, giving Houston multiple pass-catching options as it seeks its first win of the season.
