Will the Houston Texans have back Pro Bowl wide receiver Nico Collins for Sunday's must-win matchup against the Dallas Cowboys?
Right now, that's trending upward of becoming a reality.
Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans said on Monday that they're "optimistic" Collins and guard Ed Ingram will be available for Sunday’s game against the NFC East foe. Neither offensive weapon has played the past two games, resulting in regression from the offense in both the ground game and passing attack.
“We’re hopeful to get both guys back this week,” Ryans said.
Defensive end Jadeveon Clowney, who also hasn't played the past two weeks because of a knee injury, remains week-to-week. That side of the ball has been hindered by depth on the edge, though last week, Houston
recorded five sacks and forced two fumbles.
The big loss has been Collins, a three-time 1,000-yard playmaker and the one constant in the Texans' passing attack. Over the past two weeks, Houston's had little success moving the ball on the outside to playmakers excluding Dalton Schultz.
Over the past two games, Xavier Hutchinson has taken over as the leading target, totaling nine catches for 120 yards. Collins alone had half that production in one game with seven catches for 75 yards and a score against the Buffalo Bills.
As for the offensive line, Wyatt Teller has started at right guard for Houston with Ingram sidelined. Many expected him to win the starting job opposite Ingram, but he's struggled to win battles this season Teller in run blocking sets.
A former Pro Bowler, Teller's best days are in the past. And that's been evident by Houston's inability to run the football. Over the past two games, the Texans have rushed for only 130 yards and one touchdown.
Kickoff from Reliant Stadium is set for Noon.
This article originally appeared on Texans Wire: Will Pro Bowl WR Nico Collins return in Week 4? Texans provide massive update
