Nico Collins, a former third-round draft pick, continues to establish himself as one of the Houston Texans’ most valuable players, shown by his impressive ranking among the NFL’s top wide receivers for 2025. Pro Football Focus analyst Trevor Sikkema placed Collins seventh in his latest list of the top 32 receivers, highlighting his rapid rise in just four seasons.
Elite Performance Metrics Highlight Collins’ Growth
Sikkema emphasized Collins’ outstanding performance with back-to-back elite receiving grades, marking 91.4 in 2023 and improving to 92.3 in 2024.
“Collins has now posted back-to-back seasons with elite receiving grades — 91.4 in 2023 and 92.3 in 2024,”
Sikkema wrote. His combination of size, speed, and route-running ability positions him as a genuine No. 1 receiver. Over the past two years, Collins earned a 95.3 receiving grade against single coverage, a number only surpassed by A.J. Brown.
Collins shares the Tier 2 category with other elite talents such as Amon-Ra St. Brown, Puka Nacua, Ceedee Lamb, and Tyreek Hill, affirming his status among the NFL’s most impactful wideouts.
2024 Season Stats Cement Collins’ Rising Stardom
During the 2024 season, Collins amassed 1,006 receiving yards over just 12 games, securing 68 catches with an impressive average of 14.8 yards per reception. He also scored seven touchdowns, achievements that earned him his first Pro Bowl selection. At only 26 years old, Collins is becoming a consistent top-10 receiver in league-wide evaluations, praised for his versatility and precise route execution.
Future Outlook: Opportunity for Further Advancement
The Texans’ young wide receiver could climb even higher in future rankings if quarterback C.J. Stroud and the offensive line improve from last season’s disappointing finish. Collins’ emergence as a go-to receiver not only strengthens Houston’s offense but also signals his increasing importance within the team’s long-term plans.
Nico Collins’ continued development, combined with his notable physical traits and production, suggests he will remain a key figure for the Texans and a player to watch among the NFL’s top receivers for 2025.