Texans’ Nico Collins Likely To Miss Week 3

Entering this season off three straight 1,000-yard campaigns, Collins looked like his typical self in Week 1. The Texans lost a 36-31 shootout to the Bills, but Collins secured seven of 10 targets for 75 yards and a touchdown.

Collins has not returned to practice since suffering his injury last Wednesday, which is unfortunate for a Houston team trying to stave off an 0-3 start. Indianapolis is also 0-2, leaving the two AFC South rivals in early season desperation mode.

With Collins unavailable last week, tight end Dalton Schultz stepped up as quarterback C.J. Stroud’s go-to guy. Schultz pulled in an eye-popping 12 receptions and 140 yards on 14 targets. Stroud found eight different pass catchers during a 30-of-55, 353-yard afternoon, but points were hard to come by against a revamped Bengals stop unit.

Even if Collins is unable to play this week, the Texans could have an easier time against the Colts’ woeful defense. While head coach Shane Steichen spoke out in support of defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo on Wednesday, the unit ranks last in total yards, pass defense, scoring and EPA per play. The Colts are a similarly terrible 31st against the run, which could give the Texans’ ground game an opportunity to bounce back after a forgettable performance versus Cincinnati. Stroud led the team in rushing with 29 yards, while running backs David Montgomery and Woody Marks mustered a measly 18 on 14 carries.

In addition to Collins, the Texans’ offense will probably go without right guard Ed Ingram (groin) for the second week in a row. Free agent addition Wyatt Teller should start again in Ingram’s place, per Alexander. On the other side of the ball, the Texans’ edge-rushing contingent is unlikely to have Jadeveon Clowney for the second consecutive week. The 33-year-old does not appear ready to return from a groin issue. With the all-world tandem of Will Anderson Jr. and Danielle Hunter as their starting defensive ends, the Texans remain in enviable shape at the position.