If you’re checking “Is Nico Collins playing this week?”, the latest news confirms Nico Collins will NOT play today for the Houston Texans. Here’s the full updated status, what it means for your fantasy lineups, and why the team made this decision.
Latest Status: Out This Week
Houston Texans wide receiver **Nico Collins is inactive and not playing in Week 18’s game against the Indianapolis Colts. According to multiple sources, Collins has been healthy but designated as a “rest” decision rather than a traditional injury absence. The Texans are opting to preserve their star wideout’s health ahead of the playoffs instead of risking injury in the regular-season finale.
Here’s the key takeaway:
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Playing Today? No — Collins will not play.
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Designation: Healthy scratch / rested by Texans.
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Reason: Strategic decision to keep him fresh for the postseason.
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Next Expected Game: Playoffs / Wild Card Round.
Why He’s Out — Team’s Strategy
The Texans have already clinched a playoff spot, so resting key starters — like Collins — makes sense to avoid unnecessary injury risk. Collins has been a consistent offensive force, posting over 1,000 receiving yards this season, but Houston wants to enter the postseason fully healthy.
Fantasy Football Impact
Collins has been one of the most valuable fantasy wide receivers this season, but his absence this week means a zero stat line in Week 18 if you started him. Fantasy managers should:
Bench Collins this week
Start receiver backups (e.g., Jayden Higgins, Jaylin Noel) if they are on your roster
Look to other WR options with reliable volume
His resting status could open targets for Houston’s secondary receivers — which may help deeper league players or waiver pick-ups this week.
Is He Hurt?
No. This “OUT” designation isn’t injury-related — it’s a coach’s decision to rest him. There’s no additional health or injury news linking Collins to a serious issue this week.
Looking Ahead
Collins will be ready and expected to play once the postseason begins, making him a strong keep in standard and dynasty leagues. Fantasy owners should monitor any further reports before playoff matchups but plan on Collins returning.
Summary
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Is Nico Collins playing this week? No
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Is he out? Yes — rest / inactive
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Fantasy Impact: Bench him this week
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Playing Today: Not active
