The Houston Texans have had a tough week, dealing with several injuries and facing criticism for their offensive strategy against the Vikings. Now, they’ve added star receiver Nico Collins to an already lengthy injury list, which also includes standout running back Joe Mixon, according to a post on X by NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport.
“More injury concerns for the #Texans offensive skill players: WR Nico Collins was limited in practice today with a hamstring injury,” Rapoport reported.
The Texans head into Sunday’s game against Jacksonville with a 2-1 record, but are coming off a heavy 34-7 loss to the Minnesota Vikings.
Texans WR Nico Collins off to fantastic start
It would be a significant setback for the Texans if Nico Collins is unable to play on Sunday. Collins has been a key contributor, with 18 receptions for 338 yards and a touchdown in just three games. Hamstring injuries, especially when they arise later in the practice week, can be particularly concerning. Collins was listed as “limited” in Thursday’s practice.
Additionally, the Texans might also be without their deep-threat receiver, Tank Dell, who is dealing with painful bruised ribs and is unlikely to play. This could force offensive coordinator Bobby Slowik to alter his game plan, as noted in a post on X by Aaron Wilson.
“Guys get dinged up all the time,” Slowik commented. “As a coordinator and staff, you have plays designed for certain players, but if they’re unavailable, we have other plays ready for different players. We’re always prepared to adjust. We’re confident in the guys who will step up. If Tank can’t go, it won’t make anyone blink. It’s next man up, and we keep moving forward.”
What about the injury to RB Joe Mixon?
As for Joe Mixon, Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans expressed frustration over how Mixon ended up on the injury report, attributing it to an illegal tackle, according to ESPN.
“(The tackle) is definitely what I consider a hip-drop,” Ryans said. “When the defender shifts their weight and then puts it all on the runner’s legs, you see why they want to eliminate the hip-drop tackle. It leads to a lot of injuries. It doesn’t happen often, but when it does, the chances of injury are very high. You saw that with Joe and his ankle when the defender landed on it.”
Mixon also spoke out, urging the NFL to take more action against such plays, according to a post he shared on X via ESPN.
“The NFL and NFLPA made it a rule and an emphasis for a reason,” Mixon wrote. “Time to put your money where your mouth is.”
Be the first to comment