Texans shorthanded at receiver with Nico Collins, Christian Kirk sidelined, Jaylin Smith designated for return

HOUSTON – Texans Pro Bowl wide receiver Nico Collins and starting slot receiver Christian Kirk were sidelined at practice Wednesday due to injuries.

With Collins dealing with a concussion and Kirk recovering from his second hamstring injury of the season, the Texans are making contingency plans for Sunday’s home game against the San Francisco 49ers.

Tight end Dalton Schultz leads the Texans with 30 receptions for 284 yards, four more catches than Collins, who leads the team with 339 receiving yards.

Wide receiver Xavier Hutchinson ranks third on the team with 13 catches for 123 yards and two touchdowns on 18 targets. Rookie wide receivers Jayden Higgins (nine catches, 121 yards, one touchdown) and Jaylin Noel (nine catches, 99 yards, one score) will be leaned on more. The Texans are ex