Nico Collins injury update: Texans star carted off after concussion check in Wild Card game against Steelers

The Houston Texans closed Monday night with a statement win, but one incident turned their celebration mode into a time filled with uncertainty. Nico Collins, the star receiver who has shaped Houston’s offense all season, left the AFC Wild Card game against the Steelers after a head injury that quickly shifted focus from points to prognosis.The incident occurred today, late in the third quarter at Acrisure Stadium. WR ran a crossing route and took contact as he tried to secure the pass. His head struck the turf on the way down. He stayed on the ground briefly, then rose slowly and reached for his head. Trainers stepped in without hesitation, a sign the situation required caution rather than urgency.Collins initially walked toward the huddle before medical staff redirected him to the sideline.

After a short evaluation, he entered the blue medical tent. Moments later, a cart arrived. Collins covered his head with a towel and was taken to the locker room, ending his night as the Texans ruled him out while he underwent a concussion evaluation.

Texans push forward while Nico Collins’ status looms large.

Houston confirmed during the fourth quarter that Collins was being evaluated for a concussion and would not return to the game. The update was shared during the live broadcast as the Texans pulled away on the scoreboard.

Before exiting, Collins recorded three receptions for 21 yards on seven targets. The stat line did not reflect his influence. His routes dictated coverage, and his presence shaped how Pittsburgh defended the middle of the field.

He remained quarterback C.J. Stroud’s most trusted option on timing throws before the injury.

Collins entered the postseason as Houston’s leading receiver and offensive constant. During the 2025 regular season, he played 16 games and finished with 71 catches for 1,117 yards and six touchdowns.

It marked his third straight 1,000-yard season and reinforced his role as the focal point of the Texans’ passing attack.The Texans held on for the 30-6 victory without Collins, who faces an uphill battle to recover in time for Houston’s Divisional Round game next week against the New England Patriots.That timeline matters to the team. Under the NFL concussion protocol, Collins must clear multiple evaluation stages before returning to football activity. Clearance depends on symptom resolution and medical approval, making his availability uncertain for the next round. If Collins misses time, Houston will likely turn to Christian Kirk, Xavier Hutchinson, and rookies Jayden Higgins and Jaylin Noel. The Texans moved on without hesitation Monday night.

What happens next depends on when, and if, their most important receiver can safely return.Also Read: Patrick Mahomes injury update: Trainer delivers key recovery message as Chiefs part ways with coach after seven years.