During the 2024 NFL Draft Combine, Houston Texans general manager Nick Caserio made a unique remark that caught the attention of the Houston media.
“I’m sure I’ll get a question here very soon about Nico Collins; that’s coming,” Caserio said during his media availability. “That could be a player that may be a part of the future.”
On Tuesday, Caserio solidified Collins’ role in the Texans’ future by securing him with a substantial three-year, $75 million contract extension, as first reported by The Athletic and confirmed by Big Sarge Media.
This deal, which includes $52 million in guaranteed money and a $17 million signing bonus, underscores the team’s belief in Collins’ potential. He becomes the seventh-highest-paid wide receiver in the NFL. The former Michigan wideout’s base salary will be $72.75 million.
During his rookie year, Collins quickly established himself as a crucial part of the Texans' offense. His imposing 6-foot-4-inch frame and willingness to make daring catches made him a constant target for quarterback C.J. Stroud. His performance was not just impressive, but instrumental in the team’s success, demonstrating his pivotal role in the offense.
That connection worked all season, as Collins finished with 80 receptions for 1,297 yards receiving and eight touchdowns. He had five games of over 100 yards receiving during the regular season, and he saved his best for last when his team was in a must-win situation. Houston headed into Lucas Oil Stadium to take on divisional foe Indianapolis Colts in Week 18 with a playoff berth on the line for both teams.
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| Texans Wide Receiver Nico Collins Secures A Pass From Quarterback C.J. Stroud During OTAs |
The Texans faced a shortage of wide receivers due to injury. In the absence of rookie Tank Dell and veterans Robert Woods and Noah Brown, the team relied heavily on Collins. Despite the pressure, Collins rose to the occasion, making significant contributions to the offense.
He finished the game with nine catches for 195 yards and a touchdown in the Texans 23-19 victory. His impact was felt immediately, scoring a 75-yard touchdown against Colts defensive back JuJu Brents on the Texans’ first play from scrimmage.
“I told him our first time ever working out together; I said, you’re a superstar,” Stroud said after the game that helped the Texans secure a playoff berth and eventually win the AFC South Division. “I never even snapped the ball in the league, but I just know good receivers. I told him, my goal is to make you look as best as you can, to make you look like you. Our friendship shows on the field. I’m super proud of that dude, man. It’s just the beginning for him. Just the beginning.”
Collins joined former Texans DeAndre Hopkins and Pro Football Hall of Famer Andre Johnson as just the third receiver in franchise history to eclipse 1,200 single-season receiving yards.