'The Life I Never Had': Maliek Collins Reveals Texans Motivation at Camp

Houston Texans defensive tackle Maliek Collins looks forward to the upcoming season and is revealing his motivation as he "grinds'' through camp.

The Houston Texans extended defensive tackle Maliek Collins' contract on June 14, hoping he'd continue to clog the trenches for at least the next two years.

Collins is entering his eighth year in the NFL and was set to enter free agency after this season, meaning the extension will keep him with the Texans until 2025.

In two years in Houston, Collins totaled 66 tackles and six sacks, making his presence felt on the field on just 59 percent of defensive snaps.

Collins spoke with KPRC2's Aaron Wilson on Thursday about his new deal, stating that he's happy to be a Texan, but wanted to comply with the organization during the talks.

"I wanted to work something out that was good for both of us and I feel like we did that," Collins said.

Now heading into the season, Collins explained that he wants to improve his three-technique positioning during training camp.

"I’m gonna keep getting better," Collins said. "I put the work in, coming out here every day and learning some new techniques. But you know, iron sharpens iron and I’m constantly doing that every day,"

The Texans made a lot of changes to their coaching staff and roster this offseason. Collins said that he focused on himself throughout the alterations and looks forward to next season.

"I spent some time in reflection," Collins said. "I reflected on how I was last year. I embraced the changes of the coaching staff and I took that to heart. I came in here with a clean mindset and I'm hoping to get better."

The 28-year-old thinks the rest of the defensive line "could be special," including Houston's third overall pick Will Anderson Jr., who's off to a great start coming off the edge.

"Just the attention to detail, the way he comes out here and works is excellent," Collins said. "He’s very mature and just comes out here and grinds."

As for Collins, he hopes to continue to play well on the field so he can continue helping his family.

"I got three kids at home," Collins said. "I’m always gonna continue to drive and provide the best life for them, the life I never had."

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