Nico Collins named Houston Texans’ most important non-quarterback player

When the Houston Texans drafted Nico Collins in the third round of the 2021 NFL Draft, the former Michigan prospect noted that his goal was to add his name to the list of greatest pass catchers in NFL history. league.

Four years later, Collins became the fourth wide receiver in franchise history to reach over 1,000 yards, joining Brandin Cooks, DeAndre Hopkins and Hall of Famer Andre Johnson. He finished the 2023 season with 1,297 yards on 80 catches and eight touchdowns to help the Texans finish with a 10-7 record.

READ MORE: Texans’ Nico Collins maintains ‘motivation’ after $72.5M extension

Collins’ career year culminated in a three-year contract extension in May as he established himself as one of the league’s top receivers. The Sporting News recently compiled a list of each team’s most important players outside of quarterback; Collins’ success from the previous year allows him to represent the Texans.

“Collins now has a little more company in Stefon Diggs, but Collins was rewarded for his stellar 2023 season as a No. 1 pick. He signed a three-year contract, worth $72.75 million. of dollars, placing him as CJ Stroud’s go-to man. » —The Sporting News.

Collins is one of the many reasons the Texans are entering the 2024 season with high expectations. He’ll lead a position group featuring second-year Tank Dell and All-Pro Stefon Diggs, who the Texans landed in a trade with the Buffalo Bills in April.

READ MORE: Exclusive: Nico Collins’ road to greatness leads to career-best season

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Follow Coty M. Davis on Twitter at @CotyDavis_24.