Nico Collins suffered a concussion in Monday night’s Wild Card matchup against the Pittsburgh Steelers, raising major concerns for the Houston Texans as their playoff run continues. The star wide receiver was carted off the field in the fourth quarter after extending for a catch and hitting his helmet on the ground.
According to NFL injury expert Dr. Jesse Morse, this marks Collins’ second concussion in less than three months, following his first in October 2025 that caused him to miss one game. The fact that this occurred on a Monday night – a short week – makes returning to play even more difficult.
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Injury expert delivers grim outlook
Morse estimates Collins has only a 30% chance of clearing the NFL concussion protocol in time for the next game. The protocol involves five steps, each taking at least one day, meaning the earliest Collins could theoretically return would be Saturday. Any lingering symptoms would rule him out for the divisional round.
“If he has any significant side effects, he will miss the game,” Morse explained. “He needs to get in a limited practice Thursday to have a shot.”
Morese goes on to note that the same protocol and uncertainty apply to teammate Justin Watson, who also suffered a concussion recently.
Texans offense faces WR1 shortage
Collins has been the most productive receiver for C.J. Stroud and the Texans this season, posting his third consecutive 1,000-yard campaign and remaining the go-to target for the quarterback. Monday’s game against the Steelers was unusually quiet for Collins, as he caught just three passes for 21 yards before exiting.
With Collins sidelined, Christian Kirk led the receiving corps with over 100 yards and a touchdown. The Texans also have young options like rookie Jayden Higgins (525 yards, six touchdowns) and Xavier Hutchinson (428 yards), who could see expanded roles if Collins cannot return.
In addition, Stroud could turn to Jaylin Noel and tight end Dalton Schultz to help fill the void left by Collins, but the loss of the WR1 represents a major blow to Houston‘s offensive weaponry in the playoffs.
The full impact of Collins’ injury will be determined as he progresses through the concussion protocol, with Thursday practice serving as a key indicator of whether he can participate in the divisional round.
