Overview
- Collins remains in the concussion protocol after a head injury suffered Monday against the Steelers, his second concussion of the season.
- Both Collins and Justin Watson did not practice Wednesday, and Collins was absent from Thursday’s media-open portion, which the Houston Chronicle characterized as a long shot for Sunday.
- The NFL’s five-step protocol requires two symptom-free practices, including one with contact, plus independent clearance, leaving limited time in a six-day turnaround.
- Head coach DeMeco Ryans said, “We’ll see how the week goes,” while C.J. Stroud voiced confidence in the receiver group, with Christian Kirk coming off an 8-catch, 144-yard Wild Card performance.
- Houston listed Trent Brown and Denico Autry as Wednesday DNPs for rest, and Patriots corner Christian Gonzalez practiced Wednesday as he works through his own concussion.