'Be Available': Durability Remains Top Objective For Houston Texans' Nico Collins

After injuries derailed his first two seasons, Houston Texans' wide receiver Nico Collins is aiming for another healthy year.

Jan 20, 2024; Baltimore, MD, USA; Houston Texans wide receiver Nico Collins (12) runs the ball against Baltimore Ravens cornerback Brandon Stephens (21) during the second quarter of a 2024 AFC divisional round game at M&T Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports / Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports

Nico Collins had a career season in 2023 and one of the greatest individual performances in Houston Texans franchise history. Collins posted 1,297 yards on 80 catches and eight touchdowns to help the Texans finish the regular season with a 10-7 record. 

Collins displayed his individual development while playing alongside better quarterback play with C.J. Stroud. However, Collins' durability played arguably the most crucial role. He appeared in 17 games between the regular season and playoffs, which was a testament to the work Collins put in to improve his health ahead of the 2023 season.

READ MORE: Nico Collins Maintains 'Motivation' Following $72.5 Million Extension

The career-year Collins had led to the Texans awarding their former third-round pick a three-year extension in May. Now, Collins is more motivated to make sure he is available for every game for the 2024 season.

Nico Collins getting in some innovative training to help prevent injuries (something he’s taken very seriously last two offseasons)

Via tan_t4method IG pic.twitter.com/ExNQlvNqPW

— Houston Stressans (@TexansCommenter) June 15, 2024

"I have to continue to work on my craft and work on myself in order for us to reach our team goal," Collins said. "Be available for the team; that has always been my mindset."

Several injuries derailed the first two seasons of Collins' career. His most came in 2022 when an ongoing foot injury limited him to 10 games.

A healthy version of Collins showcased the potential that made him a sought-after prospect entering the 2021 NFL Draft. And after one healthy season has led Stroud and the rest of the franchise to view Collins as a generational talent.

"He's like our age's Andre Johnson, in my opinion, of just how fast he is, how he gets in and out of his braces, releases, how strong he is," Stroud said. "I think last year was just a preview of what's to come for him. One thing I'm proud of for him for is just the work has never stopped. He's constantly in here working on his body, his hands, his mobility in the weight room. I'm just really proud of him."

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Follow Coty M. Davis on Twitter at @CotyDavis_24.