Nico Collins has firmly established himself as the go-to guy in Houston’s receiving corps - and that hasn’t changed in 2025. For the third straight season, he’s hit the 1,000-yard mark, stacking up 64 catches for 1,001 yards and six touchdowns through 13 games.
That kind of consistency doesn’t just happen by accident. It’s the result of a growing connection with quarterback C.J.
Stroud, who’s leaned on Collins as his top target all year.
But in Week 16 against the Raiders, Collins has been surprisingly quiet - at least so far.
Yes, he’s active and suited up for the Texans, but through the early stages of the game, he’s yet to record a catch. Stroud looked his way twice on Houston’s opening drive, but both attempts fell incomplete. The drive stalled, and the Texans had to punt.
Fortunately for Houston, the defense stepped up in a big way, immediately flipping momentum with a pick-six off Raiders quarterback Geno Smith. That kind of spark can often be the jolt an offense needs to find its rhythm - and don’t be surprised if Collins gets rolling soon after.
He remains the featured weapon in Nick Caley’s offensive scheme, and with his route-running, size, and chemistry with Stroud, it’s only a matter of time before he makes his presence felt. Collins has been too reliable, too explosive, and too central to this offense to stay quiet for long.