Nico Collins Injury Update: Will the Texans Star Play Against the 49ers in Week 8?

Houston Texans wide receiver Nico Collins is not expected to play in Week 8 against the San Francisco 49ers after suffering a concussion during the team’s Week 7 loss to the Seattle Seahawks. The 25-year-old receiver sustained the injury late in the fourth quarter when his head hit the turf following an incomplete pass attempt from C.J. Stroud.

The Texans have been struggling in recent weeks, and Collins’ absence could further hurt their offensive rhythm. Head coach DeMeco Ryans and local reporters confirmed Thursday that the receiver remains in concussion protocol and hasn’t participated in practice sessions this week.

Nico Collins Injury Update and Texans’ Week 8 Status

According to Aaron Wilson of Click2Houston.com, Nico Collins is not expected to play this Sunday when Houston faces the 49ers at NRG Stadium. The same report mentioned that fellow wide receiver Christian Kirk, who is dealing with a hamstring issue, is also expected to sit out. “Texans Nico Collins (concussion), Christian Kirk (hamstring) didn’t practice again and are not expected to play against the 49ers,” Wilson reported on Thursday.

Ryans addressed Collins’ situation earlier in the week, saying, “We’ll see how the week goes. Nico is one of our best players. It’s concerning. Some things you can’t control, and you just try to do the best you possibly can.” His comments suggest the team will err on the side of caution as Collins continues his recovery from the head injury.

Without Collins and Kirk, Houston’s receiving corps will rely on young players like Xavier Hutchinson, Jaylin Noel, and Jayden Higgins. Veteran tight end Dalton Schultz is also expected to take on a more prominent role in the passing game, becoming a dependable target for C.J. Stroud.

Stroud praised Schultz’s leadership, saying, “He’s super reliable, not only on the field but off the field. He’s someone I talk to about a lot of different things.” Schultz added, “Every time you go out, you’re trying to make plays for your quarterback, trying to make plays for the team. That’s exactly what we try to do.”

Texans Offense Faces a Big Challenge

The absence of Collins and Kirk significantly weakens the Texans’ offensive options. Collins has been a consistent performer this season, serving as Stroud’s go-to target and leading the team in receiving yards. His concussion not only removes a top weapon from the lineup but also affects the Texans’ ability to stretch the field against one of the league’s toughest defenses in the 49ers.

Houston will likely focus on a balanced approach, emphasizing short passes and the running game to counter the 49ers’ aggressive pass rush. The Texans enter Week 8 with a 2–5 record, desperately seeking momentum after three consecutive losses.

Nico Collins’ absence could be pivotal as the Texans look to avoid another disappointing performance. His return timeline remains uncertain, but his health will be closely monitored ahead of Week 9.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What is Nico Collins’ injury?

Nico Collins suffered a concussion in Week 7 after his head hit the turf during the game against the Seattle Seahawks.

Q2: Will Nico Collins play against the 49ers in Week 8?

No, Collins is not expected to play in Week 8 as he remains in concussion protocol and has missed multiple practices.

Q3: Who will replace Nico Collins for the Texans?

The Texans are expected to rely on young receivers Xavier Hutchinson, Jaylin Noel, and Jayden Higgins, along with tight end Dalton Schultz.

Q4: What did DeMeco Ryans say about Nico Collins’ injury?

Ryans said Collins’ injury was “concerning” and that the team will take a cautious approach as he recovers from the concussion.

Q5: When will Nico Collins return?

There is no confirmed return date yet. His status for Week 9 will depend on his progress through the NFL’s concussion protocol.