Only a year ago, the Houston Texans appeared to have the makings of an unstoppable three-head monster at wide receiver.

Then, Stefon Diggs tore his ACL and missed half the 2024 season before leaving for the New England Patriots in free agency, and Tank Dell likewise suffered an ACL tear while dislocating his knee late in the campaign, an injury the Texans won't rush or put a return timeline on.

With Nico Collins still standing from that group as the only one who will be both healthy and a Texan in Week 1, Houston had to go to work this offseason. The team acquired the reliable Christian Kirk in a trade with the Jaguars and used two Day 2 picks on wideouts from Iowa State -- Jayden Higgins (No. 34 overall) and Jaylin Noel (No. 79).

Collins, now entering his fifth year and coming off two straight 1,000-yard receiving seasons, is suddenly the unquestioned leader in the room; he's both excited and motivated to help fast track his rookie teammates' development, Bobby Kownack of NFL.com reports.

"It's crazy how time flies," Collins said Saturday at his annual youth football camp, via KPRC 2's Aaron Wilson. "It's a blessing to be in this position, man. It's only right for me to lead by example. I know they're gonna push me, I'm gonna push them. That's the only way we can get better and we're gonna shine on Sundays.

"So, push each other and let them boys know, let the DBs know what's up. I can't wait to join the guys, man. I'm excited to get back with them boys, for sure."

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