The Houston Texans might not have wide receiver Nico Collins for Sunday’s divisional round matchup after the Pro Bowler left early in Monday’s win over the Pittsburgh Steelers with a concussion.
As for the New England Patriots, their star defender, who also left early because of the concussion protocol, seems to be on track for a return at Gillette Stadium for a 2 p.m. kick.
Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel told reporters in his Wednesday press conference that cornerback Christian Gonzalez would be on the field in some capacity for the practice session. Even if listed as limited, Gonzalez would cross off a major check box ahead of Sunday’s game for a return to the huddle.
“I do anticipate him being out there,” Vrabel said, via Andrew Callahan of the Boston Herald.
Gonzalez, who has been the Patriots’ top defensive back for two seasons, suffered a head injury in Sunday’s wild-card playoff game against the Los Angeles Chargers. During the third quarter, he collided with Los Angeles wide receiver Quentin Johnston, resulting in him leaving the field early.
Having Gonzalez could be crucial for New England’s chances of advancing to the conference championship for the first time under Drake Maye and Vrabel over Houston. Collins, who left in the third quarter of Monday’s win following a collision with Steelers defensive back Joey Porter Jr., was expected to draw coverage against the Pro Bowl defender, thus opening up the passing game for Jayden Higgins, Christian Kirk and Dalton Schultz.
This season, Gonzalez has been one of the top cover corners in the league, totaling 10 pass breakups while allowing just 22 catches.
With a win, the Texans would advance to their first-ever conference title appearance in franchise history. It seems likely that would happen without Collins, who did not practice on Wednesday morning.
This article originally appeared on Texans Wire: Patriots provide update on CB Christian Gonzalez before Texans game
Reporting by Cole Thompson, Texans Wire / Texans Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
