The Houston Texans encountered significant setbacks during their Sunday matchup against the New York Jets as leading receiver Nico Collins was ruled out due to a calf injury.
Collins, who suffered the injury early in the Texans’ first drive, managed to surpass the 1,000-yard mark (1,004) in a single season for the first time in his career with a 13-yard reception. However, his achievement was overshadowed by the subsequent injury, leading him to head to the locker room for further evaluation.
Compounding the Texans’ woes, they entered the game without their second and third top receivers in terms of yards. Wide receiver Tank Dell, dealing with a lower leg issue, and tight end Dalton Schultz, nursing a hamstring injury, were both sidelined.
The absence of key offensive weapons took a toll on the Texans’ passing attack in the first half. Quarterback C.J. Stroud struggled, completing just 6 of 12 passes for 28 yards, without recording any touchdowns or interceptions. Additionally, Stroud faced considerable pressure from the opposing defense, enduring three sacks.
In addition to Collins, linebacker Blake Cashman and cornerback Tavierre Thomas also suffered hamstring injuries during the game, leading to their exclusion from the remainder of the contest.
The Texans now face the challenge of regrouping and adjusting their offensive strategy in light of these injuries as they navigate the remainder of the game and plan for the upcoming matchups.
