Texans refuse to trade Nico Collins, prioritize protection
PUBLISHED Apr 25, 2026, 1:36 AM ET
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Houston — At the close of Day 2 of the 2026 NFL Draft, Texans general manager Nick Caserio publicly rejected trade inquiries for Pro Bowl wide receiver Nico Collins, saying the team is not trading him. This week the Texans also used early draft assets and signed undrafted players as they focused on roster construction around quarterback C.J. Stroud. The immediate consequence is a firm message to interested teams and agents that Collins will remain in Houston for the near term; contract and salary-cap figures reported by outlets will shape future discussions. This month the Texans traded up to select guard Keylan Rutledge and added undrafted specialists such as punter Jack Stonehouse as they prepare for offseason program and training camp evaluations.
By Michael Grant | JQJO News
Timeline of Events
- 2024: Nico Collins signs a multi-year extension (reported in subsequent coverage).
- March 2026: High-value receiver extensions elsewhere contextualize Collins’ contract discussion.
- Late April 2026: NFL Draft — Texans trade up to select guard Keylan Rutledge.
- Late April 2026: GM Nick Caserio states publicly that the Texans are not trading Nico Collins.
- Following draft: Texans sign undrafted free agents, including punter Jack Stonehouse, to compete in training camp.
News Intelligence
- If you're a Texans fan, this is good news. Nico Collins, a Pro Bowl wide receiver, is staying put. The team is also investing in protection for quarterback C.J. Stroud. It's a clear sign the Texans are building a solid team. Check out their new additions during the offseason program.
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The Houston Texans benefited by publicly confirming they will retain Nico Collins while adding draft and undrafted depth to protect quarterback C.J. Stroud and reinforce both lines.
Teams that reportedly inquired about Nico Collins suffered a rebuff as the Texans closed the door on trades, and some undrafted players face a competitive roster battle for limited spots.
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Texans refuse to trade Nico Collins, prioritize protection
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