Nico Collins' availability for Houston's Week 3 game against the Indianapolis Colts remains uncertain after the wide receiver was not present during the portion of Wednesday's practice open to reporters.
Collins was listed among several Texans who did not take part in that session. Tight end Dalton Schultz, offensive linemen Trent Brown and Ed Ingram, and edge rusher Jadeveon Clowney were also reported absent from the media-access period.
Collins has missed Houston's past three practices and its most recent game against the Cincinnati Bengals after sustaining a Grade 1 hamstring strain during practice before that matchup. The source said the injury could keep him out for more than one game, although his status will depend on his participation during the remainder of the week.
The Texans are 0-2, and Collins' potential absence would leave a receiving group that had limited production against Cincinnati. No Houston wide receiver had more than three receptions or 40 receiving yards in that game, while Schultz led the team's passing production with 12 catches for 140 yards.
If Collins cannot play against Indianapolis, Xavier Hutchinson, Kayshon Boutte and Jaylin Noel could take on larger roles. The three receivers combined for seven receptions against the Bengals. Houston could also be without Collins until Week 4, when the Texans are scheduled to face the Dallas Cowboys, but his return timetable is not yet clear.
