Texans' Collins eyeing contract extension: 'I would love that'

Houston Texans wide receiver Nico Collins is looking for a long-term contract extension from the only team he's ever played for.

"Oh man, I would love that," Collins said, according to Aaron Wilson of Click2Houston.com. "That would be great. I feel like that's what everybody works for. I'm just going to let it come to me, whatever they decide, whatever they want to do."

He added: "If they want to negotiate, we can."

With his third NFL season completed, Collins is now eligible for a contract extension. He's entering the final campaign of his four-year rookie deal.

The Texans drafted Collins in the third round in 2021. He totaled just 927 yards and three touchdowns across his first two seasons while battling mediocre quarterback play and injuries.

However, Collins emerged as one of the league's most productive wide receivers last year. The 24-year-old hauled in 80 receptions for 1,297 yards and eight touchdowns in 2023, immediately clicking with rookie signal-caller C.J. Stroud.

"Man, it was amazing, a blessed season," Collins said. "I did miss a couple of games but made it out healthy. l did well for the team. I stayed healthy. I balled out. It was a long season but a fun season."

Collins added: "Time to reload and pick up where we left off. It's definitely a blessing, a great team to be around. I think it's time. Can't wait to get everybody back. I feel like we're on a mission."

Houston was one of the NFL's biggest storylines last campaign, winning the AFC South and advancing to the divisional round after posting a 3-13-1 record in 2022.

The Texans have $73.9 million in cap space, according to Spotrac.