HOUSTON — Nico Collins says he will return to the field when the Houston Texans take on the Dallas Cowboys on “Monday Night Football.”
“Yeah, I’m playing this week,” he told ESPN on Friday.
The star receiver missed the Texans’ past five games after injuring his hamstring in Week 5’s 23-20 win against the Buffalo Bills. He returned from injured reserve and practiced last Friday in preparation for the game against the Detroit Lions, but was unable to practice. I don’t play.
He participated on a limited basis in Thursday’s practice, but was upgraded to a full participant this Friday.
“Just going out there and being with my brothers,” Collins told ESPN. “I couldn’t feel any better. I feel good and I’m really happy to have the opportunity to play this week and continue to pick up where I left off.”
Collins’ return couldn’t come at a better time for the Texans.
Through the first five weeks, he led the NFL in receiving yards (567), and quarterback CJ Stroud benefited from his presence, ranking third in passing yards (1,385) and tied for 10th in touchdowns (7). , tied for 10th in QBR (66.2). .
However, since Collins’ injury, Stroud’s production has stalled. He ranks 17th in yards (986), tied for 19th in touchdowns (5) and tied for 25th in QBR (41.3).
Stroud also lost a No. 1 target in former All-Pro wideout Stefon Diggs, who suffered a season-ending knee injury in Week 8’s 23-20 win over the Indianapolis Colts.
With Collins back, one of the most prolific duos in the NFL could energize an offense that has been sluggish in the second half of this season, averaging just 8.1 points (tied for 27th in the NFL). Stroud and Collins’ connection produced a passer rating of 133.3, ranking sixth among duos with at least 30 targets.
“It’s a huge deal. I’m so excited to have my buddy back,” Stroud said. “I’m really happy to have him back in the team and be part of the dressing room again. They’re lonely, and when a player gets injured, you’re alone. So I’m really happy to have him in the team again.” I get to be around him and play the sport he loves. ”
The Texans’ passing attack faces a Cowboys defense that has allowed 210 passing yards (17th in the NFL), 15 touchdowns (10th) and a passer rating of 105.1 (second-highest) per game.
With Collins back, coach DeMeco Ryans said he is looking forward to seeing how it will affect an offense that averaged 24.4 points (13th) and 299 yards (24th) per game in Collins’ absence.
“Having Nico back is always great for all of us,” Lyons said. “Nico was one of our best players when he was healthy, so it’s great to have him back. His presence and the energy that he brings and the playmaking ability that he brings. I’m happy to have him back and I’m really proud of him for the effort he put in to get himself back together. ”
