C.J. Stroud, Texans Dealt Concerning News on Thursday

After leaving the Steelers game with a concussion, Texans wide receiver Nico Collins appears unlikely to clear concussion protocol in time to play against the Patriots at 3 p.m. ET Sunday on ABC, ESPN and the ESPN app.

According to Jonathan Alexander of the Houston Chronicle, Collins was not seen during the open portion of Thursday's practice in Houston. It was the second straight day he missed practice on a short week after the Texans' win on Monday night.

"Obviously, it’s a long shot he plays Sunday vs. Patriots, considering the steps he must clear," Alexander wrote on X.

The Texans only have one more practice on Friday, which means Collins would not have time to complete the return-to-participation protocol outlined in the NFL's concussion policy, which includes a non-contact practice and a full-contact practice. Another factor that adds to the pessimistic outlook for Collins is that this is his second concussion this season.

If Collins cannot play, it removes Stroud's best weapon on the outside. In the regular season, Collins recorded 71 receptions for 1,117 yards and six touchdowns in 15 games played. He has put up three consecutive 1,000-yard seasons, establishing himself as Stroud's No. 1 option in the passing game.

Against the Steelers, Collins' concussion exit was offset by a huge performance from Texans WR Christian Kirk. Kirk finished with eight catches for 144 yards and one touchdown. Stroud is likely to lean on Kirk again if Collins does not play on Sunday, but playing without his most dominant receiver will increase the difficulty against New England's fearsome defense.

The good news for Houston fans is that they have a 2-0 record in games that Collins missed this season. The Texans beat the San Francisco 49ers 26-15 in Week 8 and the Indianapolis Colts 38-30 in Week 18.