"I have no choice": Nico Collins opens up after becoming Texans veteran heading into year 5 of his career

Nico Collins was on track to have his best NFL season in 2024. After a remarkable performance the previous year (80 receptions for 1,297 yards and eight touchdowns in 15 games), he entered the new campaign with high expectations, along with second-year teammate Tank Dell and veteran wide receiver Stefon Diggs.

Injuries and the sophomore slump experienced by quarterback C.J. Stroud derailed the Houston Texans' chances to compete. They ultimately made it to the playoffs but were eliminated in the divisional round by the Kansas City Chiefs.

The 2025 offseason was a busy one for the AFC South division champions, who improved their offensive line to better protect Stroud. Collins should continue his positive trajectory, if he stays healthy, and make a bigger impact on the game.

During a Friday appearance on "Green Light with Chris Long," Collins reflected on his NFL journey, explaining how different things are since his debut:

"Man, you learn a lot. But I feel like year five came so fast, man. And like, the position I'm in right now, I have no choice but to be a vet. And just a lot of young playmakers coming in, looking up to me and asking me questions.

"It kind of put me in a weird position where, like, dang, yeah, okay, you do look up to me, you do? Watch the way I play... It's crazy how, just how time flies. But it's a blessing to be in this position, man, it's a great thing, be a great role model for the guys that's coming in. So it's only right by me to lead by example and do the right things."

Nico Collins posted 68 receptions for 1,006 yards and seven touchdowns in the 2024 season. He had to navigate the absences of Tank Dell and Stefon Diggs, becoming the team's primary wide receiver.

Texans bring new weapon to complement Nico Collins

The Houston Texans added more help for Nico Collins in the 2025 NFL draft. After sending the No. 25 overall pick to the New York Giants (for Jaxson Dart), they received several selections in return. One of those was the No. 34 overall pick, which they used to select Iowa State wide receiver Jayden Higgins.

Higgins, despite his big frame, surprised many with his speed during the combine. If Tank Dell picks up where he left off last season, Houston could be a scary team.