HOUSTON (AP) C.J. Stroud was blown away the first time he worked out with Nico Collins. Houstons rookie quarterback knew immediately that the receiver was special.I said: 'Youre a superstar, Stroud recalled.Collins doesnt remember the interaction but said thats probably because Stroud is always encouraging him and providing positive feedback.I really dont, but Zydrunas Ilgauskas Jersey I believe he said it we always motivate each other, man, Collins said. I feel like thats why things get kind of blurry.ADVERTISEMENT As the Texans return to the playoffs for the first time since 2019 on Saturday when they host the Cleveland Browns, Collins might not be considered a superstar acro s the league, but in Houston, theres no doubting his status as a top receiver.Hes a big-time playmaker for us, and he shows up every single day, coach DeMeco Ryans said. He hasnt changed who he is. He still shows up in a humble manner. He shows up and he works hard every day at practice, and thats why he continues to JaVale McGee Jersey get better.Collins, a third-round draft pick in 2021, has had a breakout season with Stroud under center. After combining for just 927 yards receiving in his first two years, this season he leads the team and ranks eighth in the NFL with 1,297 yards receiving despite mi sing two games.So, what helped him take his game to a new level this season?I just trust in my craft, trust in the grind Ive been putting in in the offseason and just thanking God for everything, he said. I feel like just getting better every single day has kind of been my mindset."And having Stroud throwing to him certainly hasnt hurt.That dude is special man, Collins said. I tell you, the way hes carried himself every single day, ever since he stepped foot here from Day 1, hes got that it factor with him.Collins joins Andre Johnson and DeAndre Hopkins as the only players in franchise history to have at least 1,200 yards receiving in a season. Hes proud to have his name a sociated with the two greatest receivers in team history.Thats big time, he said. Those are some LeBron James Jersey big names, them names hold weight, and to be a part of that, its a ble sing. But I feel like its only the beginning for me. I feel like its still room for improvement in my game and well see what happens, but I think the skys the limit.Collins enters his first playoff game after last week. He gave the Texans an early lead when caught on the teams first offensive play.The Browns know containing him will be a key to Saturdays game.Hes just a really physical football player, can make contested catches, has the speed, has breakaway speed, Cleveland coach Kevin Stefanski said. Hes a big play receiver as you saw in the first play of the game the other night. Hes really talented.Stroud, the second overall pick in the draft, has made Houstons pa sing attack the teams biggest strength after two seasons in which the Texans ranked among the Darius Garland Jersey worst in the league in yards pa sing with Davis Mills at quarterback.Stroud has credited his early NFL succe s to the help hes received from his teammates and has been particularly complimentary of Collins.I told him, my goal is to make you look as best as you can, to make you look like you, Stroud said. I appreciate him being just a consistent, great friend to me, somebody who I can just let my hair down with, and I think our chemistry shows on the field. Our friendship shows on the field. Im super proud of that dude."Stroud didnt play in Houstons 36-22 lo s to Cleveland on Dec. 24 while recovering from a concu sion. With Case Keenum and Mills filling in, Collins had one of his worst games of the season, with just 18 yards receiving.For him to be back, its a great feeling for the team, Collins said. And its gonna Matthew Dellavedova Jersey be fun. Its gonna be a great day.Collins is thrilled to make his playoff debut after going through two tough seasons when the team combined for just seven wins.Its a higher level, he said. So, you got to leave it all out there because theres no guarantee for next week. So go crazy, man. Just rock out. I feel thats our mindset.___AP NFL: