Nico Collins has emerged as one of the most notable successful walk-ons in recent college football, showcasing his abilities at the University of Michigan before transitioning to the NFL with the Houston Texans.
Born and raised in Birmingham, Alabama, Collins played high school football at Clay-Chalkville High School in Pinson, where he established himself as a top prospect. He earned a four-star ranking and was highly regarded as he ranked among the top wide receivers in the nation, listed as the No. 21 wide receiver and the No. 5 player in Alabama for the class of 2017 by various recruiting outlets. During his high school career, Collins contributed significantly to his team’s success, helping Clay-Chalkville secure the Alabama 6A state championship in 2014 while amassing impressive stats of 103 receptions, 1,968 yards, and 25 touchdowns in his last two seasons.
At Michigan, Collins was a significant contributor from 2017 to 2020, recording a total of 78 receptions for 1,388 yards and 13 touchdowns across 48 games. Notably, he had standout performances in his college career, including a remarkable game against Indiana in 2019, where he achieved three touchdowns and 165 receiving yards. During his tenure with the Wolverines, Collins helped the team achieve a cumulative record of 27-12 and made appearances in three bowl games. Unfortunately, he opted out of the 2020 season due to the complications brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Throughout his college career, Collins earned various accolades and recognition for his on-field performances, solidifying his status as a valuable player and paving the way for his professional career. His journey from a walk-on to an impactful NFL wide receiver demonstrates determination and talent, serving as an inspiration for many aspiring athletes.
In summary, Nico Collins exemplifies the potential of walk-ons in college sports, and his success story resonates not only in Michigan but throughout the football community. His future prospects in the NFL look bright, and fans are eager to see how his skills continue to develop at the professional level.