The Houston Texans traded up to select receiver Nico Collins in Round 3 of the 2021 NFL draft.
Houston originally had just a No. 67 overall pick in Round 3, which they used to take quarterback Davis Mills. The Texans traded up to No. 89 overall to take Collins. In a manner of speaking, using an original pick is one thing; giving up a trade package for a pick is quite another, and it shows the organization has believed in him since April.
The former Michigan Wolverine seeks to make an impact with the Texans.
“That’s my goal, hopefully be a big impact on this team,” Collins said. “My main focus is come in every day and get one percent better. Whatever I can to be here for the team, whatever the coaches need me to do, I do whatever for them. So, that’s my mindset every day I come in the building. Just find ways to get better, to improve and help this team out.”
Through five games, two of which he has started, Collins has caught 12 passes for 166 yards. The 6-4, 215-pound wideout has found a way to collect chunk plays for Houston’s offense, recording a 13.8 yards per reception.
The Texans are on a seven-game losing streak after starting off 2021 with a 37-21 victory over the Jacksonville Jaguars at NRG Stadium. Facing the equally 1-7 Miami Dolphins Sunday at Hard Rock Stadium, Collins sees the game as a chance to get Houston off the schneid.
“We are just looking at this week as another opportunity, another chance to go out there and compete,” said Collins. “That’s our mindset this week. Another opportunity, another week. Let’s improve from last week.”
The Texans will have the benefit of starting quarterback Tyrod Taylor returning to the lineup. Collins has caught two passes for 39 yards from the former Pro Bowler.
