Nico Collins Named Houston Texans' 'Most Important Non-Quarterback'

After a career-year, Nico Collins has been named the Houston Texans "most important non-quarterback" entering the 2024 season.

Jan 13, 2024; Houston, Texas, USA; Houston Texans wide receiver Nico Collins (12) runs after his reception against Cleveland Browns safety Duron Harmon (30) in a 2024 AFC wild card game at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Thomas Shea-USA TODAY Sports / Thomas Shea-USA TODAY Sports

When the Houston Texans drafted Nico Collins in the third round of the 2021 NFL Draft, the former Michigan prospect noted that his goal was to add his name to the list of greatest pass-catchers in league history.

Four years later, Collins became the fourth wide receiver in franchise history to reach over 1,000 yards — joining Brandin Cooks, DeAndre Hopkins and Hall of Famer Andre Johnson. He finished the 2023 season posting 1,297 yards on 80 catches and eight touchdowns to help the Texans finish with a 10-7 record.

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

Collins' career year resulted in a three-year contract extension in May, as he established himself as one of the league's top receivers. The Sporting News recently put together a list of each team's most important player outside of quarterback; Collins' success from the previous year has him representing the Texans.

"Collins now has some more playmaking company in Stefon Diggs, but Collins was rewarded for his 2023 breakout season like a No. 1. He signed a three-year, $72.75 million deal, locking him up as C.J. Stroud's go-to guy." — The Sporting News.

Collins is one of several reasons why the Texans are entering the 2024 season with lofty expectations. He will be at the helm of a position group that features second-year wideout Tank Dell and All-Pro Stefon Diggs, who the Texans landed in a trade from the Buffalo Bills in April.

---

READ MORE: Exclusive: Nico Collins' Road to Greatness Leads to Career-Best Season

Stick with TexansGameday for more coverage of the Houston Texans throughout the offseason.

Make sure to subscribe to our daily podcast Locked On Texans today!

Follow Coty M. Davis on Twitter at @CotyDavis_24.