The Houston Texans will be without wide receiver Nico Collins for Sunday’s playoff game against the New England Patriots. Collins, who was carted off the field last week during the Texans’ wild-card victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers has been ruled out after failing to progress through the NFL’s concussion protocol. He also did not practice all week, leaving Houston without one of its key offensive weapons.

How Collins got injured and his recovery status

Collins suffered a concussion in last week’s win over the Steelers and was immediately taken off the field on a cart. Following the injury, he entered the league’s strict concussion protocol which requires players to pass several medical evaluations before returning to action.Despite the Texans’ hopes for a quick recovery, Collins did not participate in any practices this week and was officially ruled out on Saturday. Head coach DeMeco Ryans confirmed the news, emphasizing that the team is prioritizing player safety over short-term playoff availability.Collins’ absence leaves a significant hole in the Texans’ passing game. He has been a reliable target for quarterback C.J. Stroud throughout the season. Other receivers including Christian Kirk, Jayden Higgins and Xavier Hutchinson will now likely see expanded roles in the offense. The Texans are set to face the Patriots in a high-stakes playoff clash after upsetting the Steelers last week. With Collins sidelined, the Patriots’ defense may have an added advantage.Despite the challenge, the Texans remain confident in their depth chart and coaching adjustments. Collins’ absence underscores the NFL’s strict concussion rules which prioritize player health over immediate game availability. Players must pass multiple evaluations, including symptom checks and on-field tests before returning to play.The Texans have adhered to these protocols fully, ensuring that Collins does not risk further injury. Nico Collins will miss Sunday’s playoff game against the Patriots leaving a key gap in the Texans’ offense.As the Texans prepare for the high-pressure matchup, all eyes will be on how the team’s remaining offensive weapons step up in Collins’ absence.Also read – Mike McDaniel’s firing: Darren Waller says Dolphins owner unexpectedly showed up during exit meeting to fire him