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The Houston Texans have struggled to advance past the wild-card round of the playoffs, which sometimes results in changes to their roster.
But for the Texans, if they want to play for a trip to the Super Bowl, they say it will be with their star receiver.
Nico Collins is entering his sixth NFL season, all with Houston, and signed a three-year extension worth $72.75 million after his third. Set to become a free agent after the 2027 season, Collins reportedly told teammates he thought he was underpaid.
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Nico Collins of the Houston Texans catches a pass on his way to score a touchdown during an NFL game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at NRG Stadium in Houston, Texas on October 1, 2023. (Ryan Kang/Getty Images)
But despite Collins’ apparent disappointment, he’s not going anywhere.
“We are not trading Nico Collins,” Texans general manager Nick Caserio said Friday.
“Whoever reported it or whatever information they have can put it out there. We’re not trading Nico.”
Collins broke out in his third season, recording 80 receptions for 1,297 yards and eight touchdowns. In his first two seasons, he totaled 70 receptions, 927 yards and three touchdowns.
Nico Collins of the Houston Texans leaves the field during an NFL playoff game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Acrisure Stadium in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania on January 12, 2026. (Cooper Neill/Getty Images)
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Collins has since made two Pro Bowls and recorded at least 1,000 yards in each of his last three seasons. He is projected to be the 18th highest-paid receiver in the league, although as of 2023 he is ninth in receiving yards and tied for eighth in touchdowns.
But since Collins signed his deal, numerous receivers have reached nine-figure deals, including Ja’Marr Chase, CeeDee Lamb, Justin Jefferson and Jaxon Smith-Njigba.
Nico Collins of the Houston Texans celebrates after scoring a touchdown in the fourth quarter against the Denver Broncos at NRG Stadium in Houston, Texas on December 3, 2023. (Sam Hodde/Getty Images)
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Collins is joined by Jayden Higgins and Tank Dell, and quarterback CJ Stroud is still on his rookie contract. Caserio even shut down the idea that Stroud was available for a trade earlier this season.
