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Texans Prioritize Playoff Health, Rest Collins Against Colts in Week 18

HOUSTON, TX – The Houston Texans are heading to the playoffs, but their Week 18 matchup against the Indianapolis Colts carries significant seeding implications. However, the team is clearly prioritizing long-term health for their postseason run.

According to NFL Media’s Jane Slater, wide receiver Nico Collins will be held out of Sunday’s game against the Colts. While Collins appeared on the injury report this week, the reason for sitting him is simply rest and recovery. Collins has no injury designation for the game, underscoring the team’s focus on ensuring he’s fully healthy for the playoffs.

The Texans’ playoff seed is still up in the air. A victory over the Colts combined with a Jacksonville Jaguars loss to the Tennessee Titans would secure the AFC South title for Houston. If the Texans and Jaguars both win, Houston will be the fifth seed. A loss to the Colts could leave the Texans in any of the three wild card spots.

With Collins sidelined, the Texans will rely on a receiving corps that includes Jayden Higgins, Christian Kirk, Jaylin Noel, Xavier Hutchinson, Justin Watson, and Braxton Berrios to get the job done. While the outcome of Sunday’s game will determine their playoff path, the Texans are making it clear that having a healthy roster is paramount as they prepare for their first playoff appearance in several years.

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